week 1 Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is Employment Relations (ER)?
The study of rules governing employment and processes of control over work relations.
Why is Employment Relations important?
It influences social, psychological, economic, legal, and political aspects of life.
What are some key concepts associated with Employment Relations?
- Conflict
- Legislation
- Bargaining
- Unions
- Worker’s Rights
- Strikes
- Wages
- Courts and Tribunals
- Work Life Balance
- Health & Safety
What disciplines are involved in the study of Employment Relations?
- Sociology
- Economics
- Law
- Psychology
- Political Science
- Organisation Management
What did R. Aksam say about workers’ rights?
‘Every country is now competing to reduce workers’ rights… we’re racing to the bottom.’
What are the disputed terrains in Employment Relations?
- Management prerogative vs. industrial democracy
- Individual freedom/choice vs. collective bargaining
- Flexibility vs. security
- Competitiveness vs. income (labour cost)
- Efficiency vs. equity
- Market vs. regulation
What are the main functions of industrial relations systems?
- Preserve the employment relationship
- Prevent and resolve industrial conflict
- Maintain bargaining mechanisms
- Protect rights and responsibilities in work organization
- Provide minimum standards of pay, conditions, and safety
What are the four core elements of industrial relations?
- Employment relationship
- Conflict
- Bargaining
- Organisation of work
What are the three main dimensions of Employment Relations?
- Economic: The labour market
- Social: Conversion of potential labour power into productive labour
- Legal: Sets the terms of the purchase
Who are the key actors in Employment Relations?
- Government
- Employers
- Employees
- Unions
- Customers
- Community
- Social Movements
Fill in the blank: Industrial relations is the study of _______.
[rules governing employment]
True or False: Work has no influence on social and political aspects of life.
False
What is the relationship between Employment Relations and Human Resource Management (HRM)?
ER is linked to HRM but is not the same.
What is the significance of unproductive work practices?
They can be costly to organisations and countries.
What is the main concern of industrial relations according to Hyman (1975)?
Processes involving collective worker organisation and action.
