Original Research
Die produktiwiteitsdimensie in minimumlone
Submitted: 10 January 1997 | Published: 10 January 1997
About the author(s)
R.A. Lotriet, Departement Ekonomie & Bedryfsetiek Potchefstroomse Universiteit vir CHO POTCHEFSTROOMS.J. van der Merwe, Departement Ekonomie & Bedryfsetiek Potchefstroomse Universiteit vir CHO POTCHEFSTROOM
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The productivity dimension of minimum wages
Authorities in South Africa are currently investigating the issue of introducing a national minimum wage in the economy. “Business South Africa", as a representative of the private sector, also made proposals in this regard at the beginning of November 1995. The minimum wage debate is really not a new one and much research has already been done on the economic merits of certain aspects regarding minimum wages. However, very little, if indeed anything, has been done concerning the ethical aspect of minimum wages. This article therefore addresses the issue of minimum wages from an ethical point of view. The discussion suggests that minimum wages cannot be paid in an economy without taking into consideration the productivity levels of the workers concerned. Productivity considerations must be taken into account in the determination of the level of minimum wages, or any other type of wages fo r that matter. There should certainly not be any 'free lunch' - especially not in a low-productivity economy.
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