Corruption and Racketeering in the Labor Movement - Softcover

Philip Taft

 
9780265132098: Corruption and Racketeering in the Labor Movement

Synopsis

This book delves into the often overlooked and uncomfortable history of corruption within the American labor movement. Examining a wide range of cases from the early 20th century to the mid-1950s, the author meticulously unravels the complex web of factors contributing to the rise of racketeering in unions. The book does not simply catalog instances of wrongdoing; instead, it probes the social, economic, and political conditions that allowed these problems to take root and thrive. The author challenges the common assumption that corruption is an inherent characteristic of "business unionism" by analyzing the experiences of different unions and industries. The book explores how the concentration of power in certain sectors, the nature of local markets, and even the specific types of work performed by union members all play a role in shaping the vulnerability of unions to corruption. Beyond the specific examples, the book raises critical questions about the role of democracy within union structures and the impact of the growing size and influence of organized labor on the potential for abuse. Ultimately, this book offers a nuanced and insightful perspective on the challenges faced by the American labor movement in maintaining its integrity and achieving its goals of fair wages, equitable treatment, and worker protection. The author's careful analysis provides valuable insights into the complexities of corruption and its impact on both workers and the larger society.

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Other Popular Editions of the Same Title

9780875462479: Corruption and Racketeering in the Labor Movement

Featured Edition

ISBN 10:  0875462472 ISBN 13:  9780875462479
Publisher: Ilr Pr
Softcover