The Chimes

Issue date: 1/31/08 Section: Opinion

It is no wonder that labor unions are often among the most vocal in pronouncing the dreadful characteristics of these jobs. But it is dishonest to claim that one is doing so out of compassion for the foreign worker. If anti-sweatshop campaigns are successful, many individuals currently employed abroad will be reduced to toil on farms or left without jobs entirely. America makes an interesting statement: we are willing to give handouts but unwilling to give jobs.
Any idea suggesting workers have a list of rights that govern the conditions under which they work is absurd. Workers have a right to seek employment elsewhere. And they have the right to use their freedom-to-move as a bargaining chip against factories. But mandating how an employer runs his business is a clear violation of property rights.
So whether you are buying a cross or Nike cross-trainers, support the liberty of individuals to engage in contracts; even if they choose to accept terms you find undesirable.

wluther@capital.edu

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