Question 1

C. Wright Mills once described unions in North America as "managers of discontent." In a few sentences, explain what he meant by this term.

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Question 2

Define and briefly discuss the concepts of "business unionism" and "social unionism."

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Question 3

In a few sentences, explain the significance of the Rand Formula for Canada's system of industrial relations.

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Question 4

"Unionism is essentially a 20th century phenomenon, and will likely not be a significant factor in the 21st century." Critically discuss this statement with reference to current and past unionization trends in Canada and elsewhere.

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Question 5

In the Canadian industrial relations system, the state (government) is meant to act as an "impartial umpire." Discuss what is meant by this concept, and some of the key mechanisms employed by the state in attempting to achieve this goal. In your opinion, how

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Question 6

Workers face a number of dilemmas when deciding whether to join a union and, if already a member, whether to become an activist. Describe the "free rider" problem and the "exit vs. voice" methods that workers can use to express discontent with unsatisfactory working conditions and employment contracts.

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Question 7

How have Canadian unions changed over the past century? In your opinion, what are some of the key challenges they face today?

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Quiz 11: Unions and Industrial Relations