Final answer:
You would expect Ashley with the master's degree to be paid more than Ben because higher education is associated with higher earning potential and job opportunities. Research shows that earning a bachelor's or master's degree can significantly increase lifetime earnings compared to a high school diploma.
Step-by-step explanation:
In general, you would expect Ashley with the master's degree to be paid more than Ben. Having a higher level of education is often associated with higher earning potential and greater job opportunities.
Research shows that earning a college degree, such as a master's degree, can significantly increase a person's lifetime earnings compared to someone with a high school diploma. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earning a bachelor's degree boosted salaries 54% over what one would earn with just a high school diploma, while a master's degree yields a salary almost double that of a high school diploma.
While there may be other factors at play, such as individual skills and experience, the presence of a master's degree generally indicates a higher level of education and expertise, which can often lead to better-paying job opportunities.