I have no problem with huge gaps in income levels, however one wants to measure it. 99% of the time, those income gaps are of their own doing through bad choices. (The exception are those who are physically and mentally handicapped that really do need help.) There are all kinds of educational opportunities out there for people of all income levels, especially the young. I have a friend whose son just got out of the Air Force and he’s making more per year than I ever made as a university professor. The military is probably one of the most overlooked educational opportunities available.
“I have no problem with huge gaps in income levels, however one wants to measure it. 99% of the time, those income gaps are of their own doing through bad choices.
Many of the “gaps” are due to CHOICES, period. Many are not “bad” choices, they are just what is, due to life needs and circumstances.
That is not to say there are not “bad” choices in the mix, it is only to say that some choices that result in being in an income level below your peers are not “bad” choices. Some are circumstantial necessities and/or due to values deemed good that are not all monetary and some are just due to personal preferences regardless of monetary factors.
But yes, the “gap” is really just an artifact of peoples choices and circumstances.
When 100% of everything academic, career and job wise is equal - exact same experience, totally equal, there is no pay gap. The gap comes from difference accumulated up to whatever point in life someone is at, not generally “pay discrimination”.