First of all, the number is based on the median gross income of women vs the median gross income of men. With no other factors of experience, hours, education, what type of jobs, etc. being used in the equation. In other words, it basically treats being a kindergarten teacher the same as being an astrophysicist. So it's BS.
Additionally, women are far less likely to get degrees in math and science, which lead to higher paying jobs. In fact, men overwhelmingly dominate the majors of the highest paying jobs. And not surprisingly, women overwhelmingly dominate the majors of the least paying jobs. I can't imagine why they make less! When you account for this, the wage gap essentially disappears.
But let's look deeper, shall we?
Additionally again, women are far less likely to work more demanding jobs in construction and other similar career paths, which pay more
Additionally again, women are far more likely to change career paths mid-career (i.e. switching from operations to marketing), which makes them lose more work experience.
Additionally again, women are less likely to negotiate salaries and ask for raises - which hurts their pay (especially on their first job) which compounds each year
Additionally again, women are less likely to change companies, which is the easiest way to earn more money
Additionally again, once married, women work less than men, thus they have less work experience and don't work as many hours.
Additionally again, once becoming a mother, women work far less than men, thus they have less work experience and don't work as many hours.
Women are much more likely to work part-time jobs, while men are much more likely to work full time jobs. I'm sure you're shocked to hear that full time generally pays more.
Now - how about we argue for apples to apples, shall we?
When we compare never married women to never married men, women actually make MORE than men.
So I guess all of these greedy corporations aren't so greedy after all... Obviously - because they can save so much money by only hiring women, yet they choose to pay men 30% more money out of the graciousness of their heart? Get real.
So I'll ask again, how are women treated unequally in this country?
