Describe the concept of comparable worth with regard to pay differentials between men and women. ...

The women's movement has also been advocating for comparable worth. Comparable worth involves the concept of equal pay for comparable work rather than equal pay for equal work. Comparable worth asserts that the intrinsic value of different jobs, such as that of a secretary or plumber, can be measured. Those jobs that are evaluated to be of comparable value should receive comparable pay. If implemented, it is believed that the concept will reduce the disparities in pay between women and men who work full time. Jobs held mainly by women pay an average of 20 below equivalent jobs held mainly by men. Some states (such as Wisconsin and Washington) have initiated efforts to develop comparable worth programs for state employees.