Abstract

Wages for Wives: I. A Negative Report

Many feminists feel that in these days of economic independence for women the position of a married woman would be improved if she received a salary for services. The question, therefore, of wages for wives is an irritating, if not a burning, issue. The attitude of the average man was indicated by an inspector of elections who asked a voter her occupation. Wages are compensation for services rendered. Irrespective of service, there are two theories on which a woman is entitled to support. When a woman marries she gives up the possible opportunity of marrying someone else at a time when she would best be able to do so. Just what this opportunity is worth no one can tell, although juries are left to fix some sort of compensation in breach of promise suits.