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The value of industrial relations research(ers): Activism inside and outside the UK Academy

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  • Huw Thomas
  • Peter Turnbull

Abstract

Based on an in‐depth study of the lived experiences of industrial relations (IR) researchers in the United Kingdom, we demonstrate that IR has survived and thrived as a result of activism both inside and outside the academy. By adapting teaching and research to reflect the contemporary problems for labor, appropriating the study of human resource management, and creating synergies between service, teaching and learning, and both pure and applied research, the field of IR has experienced renewed intellectual vitality. The activism of IR academics in the United Kingdom signifies a promising future and an experience that IR research(ers) elsewhere can draw on.

Suggested Citation

  • Huw Thomas & Peter Turnbull, 2025. "The value of industrial relations research(ers): Activism inside and outside the UK Academy," Industrial Relations: A Journal of Economy and Society, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 64(2), pages 151-167, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:indres:v:64:y:2025:i:2:p:151-167
    DOI: 10.1111/irel.12361
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. David A. Spencer, 2026. "Envisioning the Future of Work: From Ideas to Reforms," British Journal of Industrial Relations, London School of Economics, vol. 64(2), pages 271-281, June.

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