Is Unionization Compatible with Professionalism?

Abstract

This study examines over 100 collective bargaining agreements, covering a wide range of professions and organizations, to assess the continuing fundamental debate over the compatibility of unionization with professionalism. The author finds that some contractual provisions affecting professional standards, participation in organizational decision-making, and other issues of professional concern support traditional professional values and some do not. This mixed evidence challenges claims that unionization necessarily involves the rejection of professionalism.