This all-too-European argument can be used by those wishing to ignore their own role in sweatshops, child labor and other inhumane working conditions. I'm sure

This all-too-European argument can be used by those wishing to ignore their own role in sweatshops, child labor and other inhumane working conditions. I'm sure everything you purchase is artisanally crafted within the EU? Looking at the EU, the minimum wage doesn't seem all that great: 14 countries have a monthly minimum wage under 1000 Euros, of the remaining, all but one is under 2000, and only Luxembourg breaks that. 2000 Euros/month is equivalent to approximately $26750, though purchasing power would be different than a direct comparison. Countries in the EU might provide more benefits (on top of the salary earned), but those will vary by country. As will benefits and tax rates in US states. Some jobs are held by people working part time, students, moms, retirees seeking to stay active. If minimum wage gets too high, then there won't be jobs for these types of employees who aren't seeking a living wage, just some spare change etc. The amount of ad hominem in your post is really astounding. "people like you," references to the US lacking civilization, assuming I'm a neo-liberal (whatever that means in your lexicon). This doesn't really contribute to the discussion, or provide a compelling argument to sway people with different opinions. The minimum wage went from $15/hour to $16.30. $15/hour is a hair over $30K/year for a fulltime employee. While I wouldn't like to try and support a family on that, I wouldn't consider it a pittance. It's not like the Triangle Shirt Factory...