Rethinking Mobilization Theory for Union Revitalization within the SSA Theory Framework

Abstract

This article offers to rethink John Kelly’s mobilization theory within the social structure of accumulation (SSA) approach, a long-wave theory version. The SSA theory claims that institutional changes shape long waves with the decisive roles of capital–labour conflict, economic crises and political decisions. The SSA theory also introduces a different long-wave chronology that is more consistent with Kelly’s approach. Such a chronological reorganization allows Kelly’s expectation of union revitalization to be maintained. By drawing an intersection of these two theories, it is conceivable to conceptualize long waves more in line with the character of mobilization theory. Therefore, the article suggests that union revitalization is still possible in the context of these theories.