Labor Relations: Ideologies, Globalization, and Representation
Individualistic Ideology vs. Collectivism
Individualistic Ideology: The liberal state posits that state intervention is unnecessary, and its role is limited to ensuring equality before the law. It advocates for non-intervention in economic affairs or labor relations, believing that workers are best positioned to make decisions based on supply and demand.
Collectivism: The welfare state perspective argues that individuals are born into an unequal society, necessitating state intervention to mitigate these inequalities. It recognizes that workers may be compelled to accept unfavorable employment. Unemployment has always existed due to regulations that do not function effectively in labor relations, leading to significant capital accumulation by entrepreneurs and poor working conditions for workers. Therefore, state intervention in labor relations is deemed essential for achieving equality. Collectivism emphasizes that certain rights are only effective when applied to the entire workforce. Only from a collective standpoint can the risks faced by workers be adequately insured (following a risk-sharing logic).
Kropotkin’s direct commitment to the elimination of the state and the existence of the agreement were more individualistic theses accepted but did not win.
- Until now, the existence of social problems had not been acknowledged, making recognition a necessary first step.
- Study of the conflict, its causes, and effects.
- The state intervenes.
These three points prevailed against individualistic and collectivist dogmas. This framework fosters societal growth and reduces inequality.
Globalization’s Impact on Labor
Globalization is a phenomenon that enables rapid production and delivery of goods to their destination. It represents a socioeconomic system facilitating global interaction in the production of goods or provision of services. The context of globalization has introduced uncertainty, as growth is no longer guaranteed.
Decentralization of Production
Decentralization of Production: Companies now focus on producing only the most valuable components of a product, outsourcing less critical parts to other companies, potentially located in different countries, to reduce costs. In Spain, for example, this has led to a decline in the textile industry. These companies generate substantial profits, often derived from the labor of workers in countries where development entails minimal wages. Consumption, as we know it today, poses a threat to the Earth’s physical limits. This is a global issue.
Topic 2: The Subject System of Labor Relations (I)
The Role of Business Organizations
Business organizations possess a structure akin to unions, but their legal frameworks differ significantly. They wield considerable power:
- Economic Power: Exerting a substantial influence on political power.
- Limited Political Power: Recognizing the right to strike but not extending the same recognition to trustees.
Structure
Parallel to trade unions, with only the names of the organizations differing.
Other Forms of Representation
- Pensioners: Cannot form unions as they are not active workers.
- Unemployed: Similar to pensioners.
- Self-Employed: Associations have experienced growth in recent years.
- Professional Associations: Organizations that unite workers in liberal professions, establishing rules to ensure professional conduct without infringing upon client rights.