S/HR/217. Dissertation. Employee Relations and Industrial Conflict: Unitary and Pluralistic Frames of Reference

The dissertation investigates theoretical and practical approaches to industrial relations (IR) discussing the unitary perspective based on loyalty and common goals, and contrasting it to the pluralist perspective based on the differences of values across interest groups. Advantages and disadvantages of both perspectives are indicated. The role and history of Trades Unions in the UK is considered; the Workplace Employee Relations Survey (WERS) 2004 is reviewed. The features of industrial relations are examined considering the IR employee roles, types of collective disputes, conflict resolution strategies, ways to minimise the disruptions caused by industrial action, etc.