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Inequality and Union Membership: The Influence of Relative Earnings and Inequality Attitudes

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  • Daniele Checchi
  • Jelle Visser
  • Herman G. Van De Werfhorst

Abstract

Using surveys from the International Social Survey Programme covering the period 1985–2002 for seven European countries (West and East Germany, Sweden, Norway, Italy, the Netherlands and Great Britain), we examine the effect of relative earnings on union membership and show that union density is higher among workers in the intermediate earnings group than among low or high earners. Next, we examine the association of inequality attitudes with union membership and demonstrate that union membership is not only motivated by instrumental considerations related to relative earnings, but also by normative concerns about inequality. We interpret our findings suggesting that rising earnings inequality is in itself a source of union decline.

Suggested Citation

  • Daniele Checchi & Jelle Visser & Herman G. Van De Werfhorst, 2010. "Inequality and Union Membership: The Influence of Relative Earnings and Inequality Attitudes," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 48(1), pages 84-108, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:brjirl:v:48:y:2010:i:1:p:84-108
    DOI: 10.1111/j.1467-8543.2009.00757.x
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    References listed on IDEAS

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