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The Geography of US Union Elections 5: Reconceptualizing the Theory of Industrial Unionism

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  • G L Clark
  • K Johnston

Abstract

In this paper an argument is put for a reconceptualization of the theory of US industrial unionism. It reflects lessons learnt about the patterns and determinants of the electoral performance of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers union and the United Auto Workers union over the period 1970–82. Empirically, the spatial and temporal diversity of unions' electoral performance is emphasized. Theoretically, it is suggested that unions' performances in representation elections are the product of a complex array of processes and their interrelationships. Diversity of patterns and complexity of processes makes forecasting the future of industrial unionism a risky project. Also considered are competing theories of unionism and the methodologies for analyzing union electoral performance. Based on these observations, a case is made for the necessity of a ‘new’ framework for understanding the geography of US unionism.

Suggested Citation

  • G L Clark & K Johnston, 1987. "The Geography of US Union Elections 5: Reconceptualizing the Theory of Industrial Unionism," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 19(6), pages 719-734, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:19:y:1987:i:6:p:719-734
    DOI: 10.1068/a190719
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Moore, William J & Newman, Robert J, 1975. "On the Prospects for American Trade Union Growth: A Cross-Section Analysis," The Review of Economics and Statistics, MIT Press, vol. 57(4), pages 435-445, November.
    2. Neumann, George R & Rissman, Ellen R, 1984. "Where Have All the Union Members Gone?," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 2(2), pages 175-192, April.
    3. Hirschman, Albert O., 1985. "Against Parsimony: Three Easy Ways of Complicating some Categories of Economic Discourse," Economics and Philosophy, Cambridge University Press, vol. 1(1), pages 7-21, April.
    4. William T. Dickens & Douglas R. Wholey & James C. Robinson, 1985. "Bargaining Unit, Union, Industry, and Locational Correlates of Union Support in Certification and Decertification," NBER Working Papers 1671, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
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