The argument in effect is that a living wage is a matter of such serious indirect consequences to society that it cannot be safely left to the parties directly concerned, owing to the fact that immediate need may incapacitate one party to the transaction from effective bargaining.
Dewey argues that the consequences of wage negotiations extend beyond the immediate parties, necessitating public oversight.
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Mistakes pile up and consolidate themselves into laws and methods of administration which are more harmful than the consequences which they were originally intended to control.
But in this respect he does not differ from those explicitly designated public officials who have also been known to betray the interest committed to them instead of faithfully representing it.
But he does so only at the cost of repression of those of his potentialities which can be realized only through membership in other groups.
For the older symbols of ideal life still engage thought and command loyalty.