Chapter 14: Problem 5

Compared with the share of workers in most other high-income countries, is the share of U.S. workers whose wages are determined by union bargaining higher or lower? Why or why not?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The share of U.S. workers whose wages are determined by union bargaining is lower compared to most other high-income countries. This difference can be attributed to factors such as labor laws, historical development of labor unions, economic factors, and cultural differences that influence the prevalence of union bargaining in each country.

Step by step solution

1. Research Unionization Rates in the U.S. and High-Income Countries

Begin by researching the percentage of workers in the United States whose wages are determined by union bargaining. Look for recent, reliable data sources to find the current rate of unionization in the U.S.

2. Research Unionization Rates in Other High-Income Countries

Find data on the rate of workers whose wages are determined by union bargaining in other high-income countries. Use these figures to make a comparison between high-income countries. You may create a list or a table to represent the data for easier comparison.

3. Compare Unionization Rates Between the U.S. and Other High-Income Countries

Analyze the data to determine whether the share of U.S. workers whose wages are determined by union bargaining is higher or lower than that in most other high-income countries. State whether the rate is higher, lower, or comparable.

4. Discuss Possible Reasons for Differences in Unionization Rates

Explore potential factors that could contribute to the presence of differences in unionization rates between the U.S. and other high-income countries. Consider labor laws, historical development of labor unions, economic factors, and cultural differences that might influence the prevalence of union bargaining.

5. Conclusion

Summarize the findings, stating whether the share of U.S. workers whose wages are determined by union bargaining is higher or lower compared to most other high-income countries. Briefly mention the possible reasons for these differences.