Labor Relations: Striking a Balance

John Budd continues to present the most dynamic, engaging approach to understanding labor relations in the 21st century with Labor Relations, 2/e. Budd’s well-received and award-winning presentation shows labor relations as a system for striking a balance between employment relationship goals (efficiency, equity, and voice) and between the rights of labor and management. Labor Relations moves beyond a process-based focus in studying this topic by placing the discussion of contemporary U.S. processes into the context of underlying themes: what are the goals of the system; are those goals being fulfilled; and are reforms needed. Central topics are placed in the broader context of the goals of the employment relationship, conflicting rights, and the environment of the 21st Century. Budd’s broader context therefore makes labor relations more engaging and relevant to students. It also allows instructors to raise important “big picture” ideas that go beyond mere how-to descriptions.