Labor Relations: Striking a Balance

John Budd continues to present the most dynamic, engaging approach to understanding labor relations in the 21st century with Labor Relations, 3/e. Budd’s well-received and award-winning presentation shows labor relations as a system for balancing employment relationship goals (efficiency, equity, and voice) and the rights of labor and management. Labor Relations moves beyond a process-based focus in studying this topic by placing the discussion of contemporary U.S. processes into the context of underlying themes, such as what the goals of the system are, whether or not those goals are being fulfilled, and if reform is needed. Central topics are placed in the broader context of the goals of the employment relationship, conflicting rights, and the environment of the 21st century. Budd’s broader context, therefore, makes labor relations more engaging and relevant to students. It also allows instructors to raise important “big picture” ideas that go beyond mere how-to descriptions of labor relations.

John W. Budd is a professor in the Industrial Relations Center at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management where he holds an Industrial Relations Landgrant Professorship. Professor Budd has taught labor relations to undergraduates, professional Master’s students, and Ph.D. candidates and has received multiple teaching awards. He is also the author of the award-winning “Employment with a Human Face: Balancing Efficiency, Equity, and Voice” (Cornell University Press) and has published numerous journal articles relating to work and labor relations.