Unions and Labor Laws

Though most workplaces in the United States are nonunion, the work of unions in previous generations helped to create benefits we often take for granted today, such as weekends off, the 40-hour workweek, and medical benefits. And after declining in number for generations, union membership may again be on the rise as weak economic conditions lead employers to impose layoffs and pay cuts. The power of unions, however, has also been responsible for the creation of often corrupt and bullying labor leaders and crippling strikes. Individual unions' attitudes have varied from inclusive to racist, from democratic to elitist. Are union leaders and members heroes or villains? Are employers who oppose unions merely selfish? ""Unions and Labor Laws"" examines these complex issues from a variety of viewpoints.