Die vergoeding vir arbeid in Suid-Afrika : 'n teologies-etiese studie

Abstract

On the basis of descriptive and prescriptive ethics and by means of literature study and exegesis of the Scriptures, this study poses an answer to the question: "How should factors that define labour compensation in South Africa since 1994 be judged according to theological ethics?" Since the subsistence farming of the seventeenth century in South Africa labour compensation has changed to a mainly capitalistic system with money as the most important compensation to labourers for services rendered. Since the seventeenth century a period of unfolding and development of careers has taken place mainly as a result of the influence of colonists from Europe. Gradual development taking place in the economic field has made subsequent factors in lieu of labour compensation more relevant for labourers. Various factors with regard to compensation of labour after 1994 - when the first fully-fledged democratic voting took place in South Africa - defines that it must be seen against the developmental background before 1994. In this study thirteen factors that have an influence on compensation since 1994, will be identified. Some factors tend to lean towards underpayment and others to overpayment. Interior factors relating to insufficient payment are unemployment, child labour, HIV/Aids and gambling. Foreign factors relative to insufficient payment are illegal immigration and cheap imports. Relevant to this, there are also factors resulting in higher remuneration of labourers. Labour laws with regard to affirmative action and minimum wages have a positive influence on payment for labourers. Illegal conduct of labourers gives rise to theft, robbery and corruption. Positive reactions are also in place with regard to remuneration of labourers. In view of this, over-pay, strikes and emigration play an important role. The factors that influence payment since 1994 are being judged according to the Scriptures, pertaining labour and remuneration. God created mankind serving as inhabitants and workers of the earth. He also decreed that mankind will live from the fruit of his labour. This decree forms the basis by which labourers receive remuneration for their efforts. Through fellowship man shows that he is sewing God and fellow-country men and does not labour only for his own advantage. The fall of man has far-reaching influences on mankind, his labours, place of labour and the consequent remuneration be receives for services rendered. One cannot fatalistically accept the influence of the fall of mankind. The recreation of mankind, started by Jesus Christ also affects the area of labour. This study demonstrates how remuneration for labour does not comply to Bible principles. Guidance will be given to how, especially believers, be they employers or employees, portray God's image through their conduct. Believers should execute their labours in such a way, that they are worthy of decent remuneration. Christian employers ought to be reasonable when paying employees, create and protect job opportunities and where possible, employ more labourers. Maximum opportunity should be granted by the ruling authority in order that as many people possible have the opportunity to labour without being exploited.