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Rebellion against Reason? A Study of Expressive Choice and Strikes

Author

Listed:
  • Christa N. Brunnschweiler

    (Department of Economics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology)

  • Colin Jennings
  • Ian A. MacKenzie

Abstract

We challenge the conventional view that strikes are caused by asymmetric information regarding firm profitability. We build an expressive model of strikes where punishing unfairness provides the expressive benefit of voting for a strike. The model predicts that larger union size increases wage offers and strike incidence. Also, although standard asymmetric information still counts, it is the employer who is not fully informed about the union's emotionality, thereby contributing to strikes. An empirical test using UK data supports the predictions. Larger union size is linked to more strikes and other industrial actions, even when controlling for standard asymmetric information.

Suggested Citation

  • Christa N. Brunnschweiler & Colin Jennings & Ian A. MacKenzie, 2012. "Rebellion against Reason? A Study of Expressive Choice and Strikes," Working Paper Series 13012, Department of Economics, Norwegian University of Science and Technology.
    • Handle: RePEc:nst:samfok:13012
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Fearon, James D., 1995. "Rationalist explanations for war," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 49(3), pages 379-414, July.
    2. Hamlin, Alan & Jennings, Colin, 2011. "Expressive Political Behaviour: Foundations, Scope and Implications," British Journal of Political Science, Cambridge University Press, vol. 41(3), pages 645-670, July.
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    8. Peter Ingram & David Metcalf & Jonathan Wadsworth, 1993. "Strike Incidence in British Manufacturing in the 1980s," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 46(4), pages 704-717, July.
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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior
    • J52 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor-Management Relations, Trade Unions, and Collective Bargaining - - - Dispute Resolution: Strikes, Arbitration, and Mediation

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