I think you're ignoring the really obvious difference in that one of those options is extremely rewarding for some people, to the point that some people volunte

I think you're ignoring the really obvious difference in that one of those options is extremely rewarding for some people, to the point that some people volunteer to do it for free, and provides as a useful credential to get other high paying, rewarding jobs. The other option is mindless, dull, and only really serves as a gateway to other menial labor jobs. When viewed this way, the wage difference doesn't seem silly.