Labor Unions in Today's economy: pro's and cons

Introduction

Labor unions are organizations of workers, in several industries, which band simultaneously and trial to get more benefits for the widespread worker. By appearing as one unit, and threatening actions such as employed strikes if they are not heard, they can become a very mighty foe for employers. They can be very beneficial for employees by giving them that power, but they manage have negative effects as well. (Toossi,19)

In unionized political economies, labor unions have forged strong alliances with mainstream political parties to alter fundamentally the distribution of wealth and the management of business. In the 1930s, national labor movements in most countries forged relationships with one (or more) electorally competitive political party, be it Social Democratic, Socialist, Communist, or Liberal. Unions remained significant partners of governing parties in many countries through the end of the 1970s. In some cases, such as the United Kingdom and Scandinavia, the labor movement has constructed and directed parties to use as a political instrument to further their own interests in the government. While the traditionally close alliance between labor movements and left-ofcenter political parties remains intact in most countries, it has come under strain since the 1980s, and unions have had to compete against other new interest groups and social movements to affect government policy.

The argument over the pros and cons of labor unions has been a popular platform for political parties since the unionization rise that appeared throughout the progressive era of the 1920's. While the nature and use of unions has changed dramatically since the earliest inceptions of collective bargaining and battling for safety in the workplace, there is still an unbelievable amount of differing attitude for and against these workers' organizations. (Gordon,45)

There are many points which are arguable pros for the use of labor unions. In their most basic pattern, unions allow employees to band simultaneously to negotiate for better wages and benefits, and to make sure that every individual is being treated fairly by the employer. They even assist defend minorities, and other subordinated groups, from being wrongfully fired. (Toossi,19)

But, some would say that today's unions push wages to unreasonable, above-market levels that are unrealistic for corporations to grant.(Gordon,45) This hostile natural environment can often lead to a stalemate in which both parties find themselves unhappy with the resolution.

Another positive aspect of labor unions is that they give employees an opening to become a more cohesive community. Organizing puts the minds of employees towards battling for the greater good of the worker base at large, instead of for individual gain. This encourages teamwork and cooperation.

However, dissenters would argue that through this collective voice, unions pit employees against employers in a way that is counterproductive to employ successfully simultaneously and finishing a job to the highest standards of quality. Some even suggest it creates an “us and them” mentality which breeds distrust of management by employees and vice versa.

Of, course, one of the biggest powers a labor amalgamation has is to ...