Labor unions have been a significant force in shaping industries across America. It provides workers with a unionized voice to negotiate better wages, benefits, and job security. Unions aren’t loved by everyone, they are very divided because they revolve around personal livelihoods and job security.
The pros of unions from an employee’s point of view are they are given increased bargaining power, they provide safer workplace conditions, and union members have greater legal representation. According to the University of Utah, “Research suggests that unions are associated with more favorable wages (~ 15% higher) and benefits (retirement and employer-sponsored health plans), as well as greater job security. Unionized workplaces tend to be safer than their non-unionized counterparts.” Moving into the pros for employers, it allows for a single contact point for negotiations which can streamline the process. Lastly, another big pro would be higher employee productivity and morale. In my experience working for a company who hires ironworkers in a union, there is a greater guarantee that the workers will be experienced. From the viewpoint of society, it is important to note that unions reduce income inequality, advocating for fair wages. The most important benefit to society that I have seen is the advocacy that unions provide. People across the U.S. have been able to support social justice movements that push for fair treatment and better working conditions.
Looking at the negatives of unions starting out for employees, there are union dues that can be a financial burden, along with strikes, they aren’t always successful and can in some circumstances risk job security. Next, for employers, the negatives can be higher labor costs along with a skewed relationship between management and laborers. Something that I have heard from my dad who is in a construction union is that the rules in the unions sometimes make him feel limited.
Overall everyone has their own opinions of unions and there are pros and cons from every viewpoint.
Sources:
- Learning Material
- https://www.cooperandfriedman.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-unions/
