Rigidity is setting in that obscures reasonable discussion of the imperfections of a free market where women's wages are concerned, and increases the likelihood that comparable worth, if implemented, might substitute one set of arbitrary job evaluations for another. (MLW)

Comparable worth has emerged as a concept used primarily as a way of establishing equity, particularly in compensation for employed women. Study and implementation of the comparable worth concept are occurring most frequently in state and local governments. State action and federal initiatives are described. (MLW)