"Worth" is a big notion. Based on his replaceability? Or the value of what he produces vs what he consumes? Does he have some innate moral worth or is it measured strictly in dollars? Etc.
I reckon it like this: Define shit however, there's always going to be a below average half. By definition, they are a drain on the above average half. If you're lucky enough to be above average, it suits you better to be grateful than resentful.
Naturally, I'm one of the grateful. 
worth as in, he cannot learn or retain anything that will allow him to compile a skill set deemed valuable to a company... therefore his worth in the business world is damned to be the minimum wage allowable by law, as hes obviously in the extreme bottom bracket of employees. These people are never going to be able to do anything more than pushing a broom or hitting a 'start' button, so why should he earn anywhere near what others earn, who actually have skills, or are motivated to learn, or have natural talent?
I understand your moral grandsranding but the fact is as an employee hes next to worthless to 99% of employees, and giving him a wage that rivals what people that have spent time, money, and effort to acquire just because 'its unfair that he doesnt make enough to live a comfortable life like we do' is, in fact, unfair to those that have excelled or out in the time and effort.
it would be just as unfair if I demanded to make 45 an hour because the 'ive league guy has a million dollar house so why cant I?'
People are not created equal, and people don't deserve to make a certain amount just 'because its uncivilized, dammit'.
Youre not bringing them up to a decent life, youre bringing all those that have worked their ass off down to the lower class with the dipshit that cant read a tape measure.
