i think i finally understand the underlying difference of thought in the "how much do you pay your nanny" debate. some people pay for what they think is the value of the job. other people pay for the amount at which they think the nanny would take the job and not be able to make significantly more in another job or another field.

np: I disagree. Lots of people pay what they can afford, which may be on the low side of the going rate, or the high side as the case may be. Some are happy to pay premium for what they perceive is important (native English speaker, education, etc.) while others think just keeping the baby safe and happy is good enough. Lots of different ways to look at this.