Question 14 • MO-US History II A
Answer:
Passing a bill that prohibits child labor is the wisest decision. Economically, while continuing child labor provides cheap labor and short-term profits for businesses and some family income, banning it creates long-term benefits like a better-educated workforce, higher future wages, and greater productivity. Socially, prohibiting child labor protects children’s health, allows them to attend school, and breaks cycles of poverty and exploitation, even though families may face temporary hardship without the child’s wages. Politically, a ban improves a nation’s reputation, supports human rights standards, and can lead to better international trade relations, despite possible pushback from factory owners and politicians who benefit from cheap labor. Continuing child labor may seem cheaper now but causes lasting damage to society and the economy. Therefore, the long-term economic, social, and political benefits of ending child labor far outweigh the short-term costs.