18 Oct Our readings focused on the benefits of unionizing and collective bargaining. Let’s examine the opposing point of view.

Upsides and Downsides

Our readings focused on the benefits of unionizing and collective bargaining. Let’s examine the opposing point of view. Many people feel that unions and collective bargaining actually have a heavy downside that is sometimes ignored. Do you think there is a downside or disadvantage to having unions or engaging in collective bargaining?

For example, the ability to unionize often leads to increased pay and benefits for workers. Workers also can receive extra protection and benefits in terms of workplace safety and the establishment of a formal independent process to handle workplace disputes between employers and employees. On the other hand, union protections can make it harder for companies to promote the best employees and fire the worst employees and instead rely on tenure and seniority for staffing decisions. Some workers also object to having to join a union and pay union dues for some jobs when they do not want to belong to the union.

Some other world factors that must be considered in any discussion of this issue are outsourcing and third-world labor markets. Explain how outsourcing and third-world labor markets enter into the mix when it comes to unionizing and collective bargaining. Explain your responses and support your positions.