WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT LABOR?

by ‧ RELEASE DATE: Nov. 14, 1956

This is a question one is tempted to ask when people make sweeping statements about strikes, right to work, racketeering in labor unions, power of labor in politics, etc., etc. Here are the answers- and all citizens not engaged in union activities (and presumably already aware of the answers) should read this book. It is written for the layman, by two men well equipped to handle the material:- James Myers was industrial relations secretary for the Federal Council of Churches; Harry W. Laidler has served on the National Bureau of Economic Research and is now executive director of the League for Industrial Democracy. Both men approach the subject of labor unions and their place in a democracy with a sound background of knowledge, a sympathetic appreciation of the role and the goals, an understanding of the historical pattern, the achievements, the failures, and a basic faith in labor in America. The early chapters review the slow uphill fight, the effect of the business cycles, the wars, legislation, etc. on organized labor. They recognize the unfinished business still to be accomplished. They view with appreciation the rights of capital and employers, but see fair dealing as best for both oldes. They confront the misapprehensions as to actual causes and results of strikes and present the facts. They discuss various solutions offered,-guaranteed annual wage, profit sharing, cooperative movements, etc. They analyze successive legislative particularly the Wagner Act and the Taft- Hartley Act. They touch briefly on the fears regarding automation and summarize the possible advantages. They wind up with brief attention given to the record in civil liberties, the place of women in trade unions, and labor on the international front. Here is an excellent one. volume refresher course for all who had come grounding in the subject at school- and for others who would get a first once over lightly view. All in all a heartening presentation of a vital subject.

Pub Date: Nov. 14, 1956

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: John Day

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 1956

Categories: NONFICTION