Why Unions Matter

Great

This book hits all the highlights and explains why labor needs to be organized. Sometimes the book takes on a decidedly political tone, which is understandable because of the relationship Beltway folks have with the little guy. There is a bunch of information and a good historical prospective on Unions. He doesn't pull any punches, and covers mistakes that have been made by some large Unions. No organization is perfect, and it's great to see a more complete picture then just talking points.

I am trying to become better informed on the history of the labor movement. I found this book very informative and helpful. As a worker who never had the chance to belong to a union, I am always looking for more knowledge in this area. It was not a difficult read either. I would highly recommend this to anyone who wants to learn more about unions and why they are still needed.

PEOPLE NEED TO REALIZE WITHOUT UNIONS YOU WILL LOSE THE MIDDLE CLASS. I AM A UNION MEMBER AND DO NOT ALWAYS AGREE WITH WHAT IS DONE NATIONALLY BUT IT IS DONE FOR THE WHOLE MEMBERSHIP NOT JUST ONE PERSON. ALSO MY DUES DO NOT GO TO ANYTHING POLITICAL. ANY POLITICAL MONEY IS SEPARATE.

Yates offers a great historical overview combined with critical analysis on Labor unions. This is definitely a must read for laborites and those simply interested in the way in which labor, race, the state, and management function.

Of course unions matter.While the employer has an army(managers, attorneys, spies, etc.) working for it to keep the upper hand over the employee, the employee is alone unless nepotism is involved.The author gives countless reasons for the need of a union but also reveals how the unions eradicated the radicals and became a tool for the establishment to control anti-establishments throughout the world.

I purchased this book with the intent of getting an unbiased view of unions in the US. I was hoping to learn some history and gain a better understanding of how unions have helped this country and our workers. Within the first 10 pages it was obvious that Yates had no intention of showing both sides. According to Yates, all companies are selfish, scheming, and downright evil. Unions, on the other hand, are all altruistic, caring, and victims of lying employers. I've seen the good and bad of both employers and unions; how is it that Yates, an expert in his field, has not had the same experience? If you love unions, this is the book for you. If you are trying to gather facts to make an informed decision, skip this book and go straight to a union's website.

Used book on a class and it facilitated great discussion. Final chapter should be required reading for everyone! Great work!