325-331 International Industrial Relations

This subject will critically analyse the nature of the employment relationship by a comparative, international study. First, there will be an examination of the industrial relations systems of several nations, including at least some of the following: USA, Germany, Sweden, UK, Japan, Hong Kong. Second, there will be a comparative study of the character of workplace features apparent in different countries, including at least some of the following: trade union membership patterns, industrial conflict, internalisation processes, job redesign, workplace democracy schemes. Third, there will be a theoretical appraisal of the nature of workplace relations in different cultural, historical and economic contexts. In particular, different political approaches to the pursuit of the 'national interest' will be considered.

A 2-hour end-of-semester examination (70%) and 3000 word assignment (30%).