Essential and Non-Essential Workers: Unraveling Myths and Market Dynamics

The concept of non-essential jobs is often misunderstood and frequently utilized during crises, such as the global pandemic, to justify governmental overreach and restrictions. However, these labels are misleading and do not accurately reflect the true nature of the workforce and the economy as a whole.

The Myth of Non-Essential Jobs

The differentiation between essential and non-essential workers is a myth perpetuated by governments and media to maintain societal order during periods of crisis. At its core, the idea that certain jobs are non-essential is a tool for persuasion, suggesting that these roles are dispensable during lockdowns or emergencies. In reality, all jobs contribute to societal value, either directly or indirectly, through the provision of goods and services that consumers are willing to pay for.

Economic Productivity

Any job in the private sector is inherently productive because it involves a customer who is paying for the service. This payment indicates the job is providing value to society and consumers. Jobs can be categorized as either productive or unproductive based on their contribution to overall economic value. Productive jobs support all unproductive jobs, whereas unproductive jobs often expand as a result of government controls and regulations.

Government Overreach as an Example

A prime example of government overreach can be seen in the United States with the tax code, a convoluted and complex system designed to comply with various tax policies. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) employs over 74,000 people, while the private sector has approximately 1.2 million tax preparers to decipher the tax code. This creates a significant number of unproductive jobs, as many taxpayers spend considerable time each year preparing their own taxes.

By simplifying the tax system to a flat rate, the overall economic productivity could be greatly enhanced. A single paragraph defining the entire tax code would eliminate most of the IRS and the majority of tax preparers, leading to a more streamlined and efficient system. This would not only increase productivity but also shift unproductive workers towards more productive roles, reducing the cost of production of needed goods and fostering greater prosperity.

The Premise of the Question is Invalid

The question itself is flawed, as essential workers do not "support" non-essential workers. Workers support themselves and the opportunities available to them are determined by market dynamics, including supply and demand and government activities.

Market Dynamics and Employment Opportunities

Consider the example of the tech sector during the boom years. Would we assert that companies like Microsoft, Google, and Apple were supporting the airline and car manufacturing industries? Of course, not. Similarly, the government in New York labeling liquor store clerks as essential personnel does not imply they are supporting some non-essential worker. The clerk is working to earn wages just as anyone else. How could a liquor store cashier support an unessential worker like a church minister? The minister could certainly seek employment in various sectors, including retail, based on his or her skills and needs.

During normal times or a pandemic, a patient visits a doctor to trade capital for medical skills. While doctors play a crucial role in society, they are not "supporting" the patient; rather, they are engaging in a mutually beneficial transaction. The foundation of the U.S. economy is built on voluntary transactions among individuals acting in enlightened self-interest, with people migrating to professions where their skills are in high demand and those with less in-demand skills may become idle until demand surges again.

Market Disruptions and Economic Resilience

Periods of market disruption can lead to shifts in different parts of the economy, with some sectors rising while others decline. However, this does not mean that one sector is supporting the others. Market dynamics ensure that supply and demand, combined with government activities, regulate the workforce and economy. Essential workers play a crucial role, but every job contributes to the overall productivity and resilience of the economy.

It is essential to recognize that the economy is resilient and adaptable. By understanding the true nature of work and the dynamics of the market, we can foster a more productive and prosperous society. Encouraging a more equitable distribution of essential and non-essential roles can lead to greater economic efficiency and reduced unemployment, ultimately benefiting all workers and consumers.