In times of economic distress and soaring costs of living, the assertions that people should ‘learn a trade’ or ‘learn to code’ to improve their livelihoods are common. However, closer examinations of these claims are now causing waves of discontent, particularly on platforms such as TikTok.
An Unpopular Opinion Made Popular
P is a TikTok influencer known for his rousing standpoints and socialist beliefs. Recently, he released a video expressing his critique against advocates of the ‘upskilling’ culture. In it, he argued that even so-called ‘unskilled’ workers contribute significantly to the economy and therefore deserve a good wage regardless of their skill set.
A Socialist Influencer
P’s views are informed by his socialist beliefs which advocate for economic equality and the fair distribution of wealth among all workers, regardless of their skill level. They argue that even ‘unskilled’ labor warrants adequate compensation, challenging traditional wage hierarchies and pushing for systemic change. Whilst some balk at the word socialism, many on popular social media platforms such as TikTok are finding themselves attracted to socialist ideas through content such as P’s
The ‘Unskillful’ Misconception
“Nine times out of ten, someone who is over 25 and works at a drive-through or waits tables isn’t lazy or unskilled,” P says. He further argues that most times, individuals in such roles are indeed overqualified.
The Jarring Reality
In illustrating his stance, P shared an example of a friend with Master’s degrees in biochemistry and mechanical engineering, who is currently managing a store at Walgreens.
Undervaluing the ‘Unskilled’
From P’s perspective, those who chant ‘learn a trade’ grossly underestimate the substantial portion of the US workforce made up of what they refer to as ‘unskilled labor’— standing at a whopping 82%.
Matching Numbers
Although P does not cite any source, the Brookings Institution reported in 2020 that a considerable portion of Americans aged between 18 to 64 earning low wages represent about 44% of the workforce, the majority of whom were earning a median hourly wage of $10.22.
Backing Aggregate Claims
Interestingly, various experts and economists support P’s central argument.
Retooling the ‘Unskilled’
The U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) initially coined the term ‘unskilled labor,’ defined as work that does not necessitate formal training or advanced educational qualifications. This description, however, does not appreciate the potentially intense physical or special interpersonal skills these roles may require. Thus, many now favor the term ‘low wage workers’ instead.
The ‘Essential’ of the Pandemic
During the pandemic, P observed that many low-wage roles adopted an ‘essential’ label. Unfortunately, this new status came with its unique set of challenges, leaving others scrambling for work.
An Unfair Load
The Brookings Institution revealed in 2021 that the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic heavily weighed on the shoulders of low-wage workers. Despite representing only 43% of the labor force, they constituted 52% of those displaced by the pandemic.
The Wage-Skills Debate
Bearing this in mind, many are calling for a strategic shift of focus from skill improvement to the provision of better wages. This approach, they believe, will not only improve the economic status of unskilled workers, but also herald an extensive positive ripple effect across society.
Livable Wage: The New Discourse
The Brookings 2020 report disclosed the median hourly wage for low-wage workers to be $10.22, with their median annual income at $24,000. This is far beneath what most would consider a ‘livable wage,’ causing tremendous financial stress and hardships. Such struggles usher in a new discourse about the necessity of a higher wage structure for all workers, regardless of their skill level.
Wages Against the Tides
For several decades, wages have struggled to keep pace with the cost of living. The BLS reports a meager 4.4% increment in American workers’ average earnings since 2005, even after adjusting for inflation.
An Educated Workforce In Waiting
Despite this, America is more educated now than ever before. The percentage of U.S. adults aged between 25 and 54 who possess college degrees increased from 38% in 2009 to 53.7% in 2021, says a report from the Lumina Foundation.
Calling for Action
Given the large proportion of low-wage earners and minimal wage growth overall, advocates propose that the government and corporations collectively push for a ‘livable wage.’ This concept emphasizes a wage sufficient enough to cover basic living expenses without financial stress, boosting the overall quality of life for those usually stigmatized as ‘unskilled’ workers. Advocates argue that such an improvement wouldn’t merely benefit the workers but echo positively across entire communities, thereby redefining our perception of ‘unskilled’ labor.
Breaking the Poverty Loop
“Every single job should pay a livable wage,” insists P. He further argues that anyone who disagrees supports a system that requires poverty to function effectively. Their belief stems from the notion that all work has inherent value and deserves compensation that can sustainably support a living, regardless of the level of assumed skill the job requires.
The Other Side
However, critics argue that providing a good wage to unskilled workers may have unintended consequences for businesses and the economy. They contend that it could lead to cost increases, and potential job loss due to automation, and some businesses may not survive higher payroll costs. On the flip side, proponents state that elevating the pay for unskilled workers paves the way for better living standards and socioeconomic mobility, thereby strengthening the economy in the long run.
What Would Higher Wages Really Mean?
Raising wages for unskilled workers might lead to business expenses, affecting company profitability, and may result in decisions like downsizing or hiking prices. On a positive note, it can help reduce income disparity, improve living standards for low-wage workers, and may decrease dependence on government aid. It can also boost economic growth via consumer spending. Nevertheless, balancing fair wages with business and economic impacts is necessary.
Increasing the minimum wage can reduce income inequality and enhance living conditions for low-income workers. It might lower the reliance on government aid and boost consumer spending to uplift the economy. Yet, it’s important to maintain a balance considering the impact on businesses and the entire economy.
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