The industrial age was a time in which massive wealth was created in the United States. Companies like Standard Oil and Ford Motor Company set records in revenue and profitability. They did so off the backs of incredibly cheap labor.
As conditions worsened workers began to organize into unions to protect themselves. Unions were originally intended to create better working conditions and provide better salaries for workers.
Over time unions have garnered a bad reputation. Part of it has been earned as corruption, bribes, and greed have placed a black eye on unionizing. Part of it is propaganda (powerful companies DESPISE unions).
Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if you are for or against the union.
PROS
- Provides job security for employees through contracts.
- Provides guaranteed salary increases with strict measurable metrics.
- Employees have much more influence over the workplace than non unionized workers.
CONS
- Salaries can quickly become unreasonable for the company.
- Lazy workers are protected.
- Large portion of dues can end up being used for political contributions.
- Creates unnecessary strife between workers and ownership
With this in mind how would you classify yourself and why?
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