Question

Be familiar with the basic trends of unionization from the 1950s onward. What explains this trend? Why has labor movement activity declined?

A. Unionization trends have remained constant since the 1950s due to stable working conditions
B. Unionization trends increased due to favorable economic conditions, and the decline is attributed to globalization, changes in labor laws, and increased employer opposition
C. Trends in unionization have declined consistently since the 1950s, with no specific explanations
D. Unionization trends fluctuated, and the decline is solely attributed to workers' lack of interest

Answer 1

Unionization trends in the U.S. have declined due to a shift from manufacturing to service industries, globalization, changes in labor laws, and a reduced need for unions because of workplace protections. Other factors include the U.S. legal environment's challenge to union organization and cultural differences in other countries with higher union membership. The correct option is C.

Step-by-step explanation:

The proportion of U.S. workers belonging to unions has declined dramatically since the early 1950s. This trend can be explained by a variety of factors, notably:

• The shift from manufacturing to service industries, where unions have been traditionally weaker.
• The force of globalization and increased competition from foreign producers.
• A reduced desire for unions due to the effectiveness of workplace protection laws.

Additionally, the U.S. legal environment has made it more difficult for unions to organize workers and expand their membership. This decline is not solely due to a lack of interest from workers, as other factors, such as economic shifts and changes in regulations, have contributed significantly.

Comparatively, other high-income economies also experienced similar economic trends, yet maintain higher union memberships, indicating that cultural differences and union coverage also play roles in the trend of unionization.