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Strikes and the Crisis: Industrial Conflict and Unemployment in the Western Nations

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  • Michael Shalev

    (The Hebrew University of Jerusalem)

Abstract

This article examines the fate of industrial conflict during the current economic crisis, using data on strikes and unemployment in 18 OECD nations from 1960-1982. Theoretically-based hypotheses are sought both in the notion of a 'disciplinary' political business cycle, and in the longstanding body of economic research on the relationship between strike fluctuations and labor market conditions. The empirical findings indicate that the impact of unemployment on industrial conflict varies markedly across countries and subperiods. Overall, strike activity has been dampened by mass unemployment, yet it frequently remains at a higher level than in the full-employment years of the 1960s.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Shalev, 1983. "Strikes and the Crisis: Industrial Conflict and Unemployment in the Western Nations," Economic and Industrial Democracy, Department of Economic History, Uppsala University, Sweden, vol. 4(4), pages 417-460, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ecoind:v:4:y:1983:i:4:p:417-460
    DOI: 10.1177/0143831X8344002
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Ashenfelter, Orley & Johnson, George E, 1969. "Bargaining Theory, Trade Unions, and Industrial Strike Activity," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 59(1), pages 35-49, March.
    2. Albert Rees, 1952. "Industrial Conflict and Business Fluctuations," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 60(5), pages 371-371.
    3. Bruce E. Kaufman, 1982. "The Determinants of Strikes in the United States, 1900–1977," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 35(4), pages 473-490, July.
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