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The micro‐foundations of employment systems: An empirical case study of Britain and France

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  • Thomas Amossé
  • Alex Bryson
  • John Forth
  • Héloïse Petit

Abstract

Building on existing studies of national employment systems, we undertake a comparative analysis of the micro‐foundations of employment relations in Britain and France. Our analysis utilizes harmonized, linked employer‐employee survey data for the two countries and takes a multi‐dimensional approach in which the national level remains meaningful but within‐country variance is also emphasized. Our analysis contrasts the British model characterized by variability and heterogeneity with a French model characterized by stability and uniformity. We discuss ways in which these systems are shaped by differences in employer and employee networks, the financial and organizational links between firms and macro‐institutions.

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  • Thomas Amossé & Alex Bryson & John Forth & Héloïse Petit, 2025. "The micro‐foundations of employment systems: An empirical case study of Britain and France," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 63(1), pages 3-29, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:brjirl:v:63:y:2025:i:1:p:3-29
    DOI: 10.1111/bjir.12812
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • J21 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Labor Force and Employment, Size, and Structure
    • J31 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Wages, Compensation, and Labor Costs - - - Wage Level and Structure; Wage Differentials
    • M51 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Personnel Economics - - - Firm Employment Decisions; Promotions
    • P52 - Political Economy and Comparative Economic Systems - - Comparative Economic Systems - - - Comparative Studies of Particular Economies

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