Capitalism & Women: How Government Intervention Hurts Women

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government intervention, capitalism and women

In previous articles, we have started the discussion concerning capitalism and women. We have talked about the ideological foundations and the end to the old system of labor. New innovations allowed women to leave household work behind and enter the workforce.

By contrast, government intervention in the market contributes to keeping women in the home. Those same individuals who call capitalism the oppressor, suggest that government intervention is the champion which can thwart greedy capitalists.

Again, the truth is the reverse.

Under the guise of progress, government interference in the market only hinders women’s capability to better their situation.

Licensing Laws

Licensure laws are increasing across the United States, targeting professions such as daycare providers, hair shampooers, and florists. Though these professions are not solely for women, they do make up the majority.

The government claims that these licensing laws are for the greater good of society, protecting both the consumer and the supplier of a service. Licenses for lawyers, dentists, and doctors certainly may fall under government management, but this

Licenses for lawyers, dentists, and doctors certainly may fall under government management, but this unnecessary guidance has been extended to the simplest of professions.

These laws force women not already in the profession to jump through difficult hoops to gain entry, specifically when it comes to money, education, and certification.

For example, in Washington, D.C., to become an interior designer, one must pay a fee of $925 and have over 2,190 experience days to even earn a license to practice interior design.

In the area of child care, women are hurt in two ways. Licensing and regulation for child care create a barrier of entry for people to become daycare providers, which is a disproportionately female industry. Additionally, women who may otherwise prefer to maintain a career, choose to forgo work due to prohibitively high childcare costs.

Women who may otherwise prefer to maintain a career, choose to forego work due to prohibitively high childcare costs.