The Decline of Worker Solidarity and the End of Collectivism?

Abstract

Developments in industrialized societies since the end of the 1970s, it is sometimes claimed, have resulted in the erosion of traditional working-class communities and a decline in union membership. This has raised questions regarding the continuing relevance of collectivism and solidarity. Using a survey of an Irish general union, the authors examine the level and types of solidarity among the membership. The results provide little evidence that levels of solidarity in this particular union have been eroded. The authors find that the policies and practices of the union leadership are an important determinant of union activism and activism is strongly associated with solidarity.