The sociology of labor markets and trade unions

Abstract

"This chapter deals with the relationship between trade unions and labour markets. It cannot even attempt to offer a comprehensive treatment of either of the two. The first section, 'Labour Markets and Trade Unions in Sociological Research and Theory' takes stock of core concepts and research traditions informing, or potentially informing, an economic sociology perspective on the subject. It is followed by a systematic discussion linking trade unionism to the interaction of supply and demand in different types of labour markets and trade unions to an exploration of the relationship between trade unions and politics on the one hand and the economy on the other ('Labor Markets and Trade Unions: Between Economy and Society'). Next comes a stylized historical account of the coevolution of modern trade unions, labour markets, and the welfare state in different advanced industrial countries. The chapter concludes with informed speculation on the future of labor markets and trade unions in the postindustrial era ('The Rise and Decline of Trade Unions')." (excerpt)