There is nothing to "misunderstand" here, this is not algebra but law, and law often erects artificial and arbitrary barriers in the middle of things, in order

There is nothing to "misunderstand" here, this is not algebra but law, and law often erects artificial and arbitrary barriers in the middle of things, in order to further some specific interests or agenda. The closest analogy I can find is the concept that commercial speech deserves less protection than private speech. It is a matter of opinion and prevailing mores. In my opinion, becoming an employee is a voluntary decision (unlike, say, being drafted into a war), and should be treated the same as becoming a trade union member or a volunteer in a church organization.