The Effects of Minimum Wage on Leisure and Free Time: The Cons

The Effects of Minimum Wage on Leisure and Free Time: The Cons

     Leisure is something that I feel is important in everyone's lives today, although not everyone is accessible to certain types of leisure.  I feel in some way leisure has an effect on everyone's lives in America, from those in poverty to the Bill Gates of the world.  For some people leisure might be going to the park to picnic or just play basketball, but to others it is taking an exotic trip to another country.  Whatever form of leisure each individual enjoys or can afford this leisure is most likely having a positive effect on their lives and is almost a necessity to them.

     This is not just my opinion it is also said by Kelly(1990) that, "Some indications have been presented that leisure is increasingly important in the value schemes and schedule of modern western adults"(p.11).  Kelly states some of the benefits of leisure are:

"Self expression, companionship, integration of mind and body or  

Physical health, a needed contrast or rhythm in the work constrained schedule, rest and relaxation, a chance to try something new and to

meet new people, to build relationships to consolidate the family, to  get in touch with nature, to test oneself in risk or competition, to meet the expectations of people who are important to them, and

to just feel good without analyzing why"(p.12).

     I agree with Kelly and feel that these are some of the main reasons as to why leisure is an eccentric part in each individuals lives and that each member that contributes to society in some positive way should have a chance to participate in some form of leisure.  Yet this is where the individuals economic status comes into play.  Not everyone is able to pursue desired leisure activities but many struggle to experience the "normal" types of leisure, such as watching television or listening to music.  Many politicians argue that raising the minimum wage will help the lower class and give them greater opportunities in society, but I beg to differ.  I believe that the minimum wage should not be raised because it is in actuality not helping the economically lower class but hurting them.

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