Rich Lowry

Manicures and pedicures aren't usually news or fodder for commentary, but a blockbuster report in The New York Times has made them a compelling issue.

Under the headline "The Price of Nice Nails," the story cataloged the abusive treatment of workers in New York City's ubiquitous nail salons. The story generated an enormous reaction; it highlighted the poignant juxtaposition of affluent women enjoying what once would have been a luxury, thanks to poor, exploited women with no other options.

It is a tableau that doesn't feel very American or very modern. We thought we had put the age of sweatsho...