Question

Discuss each of the three theoretical concepts of industrial relations; give two advantages of each of the theories. Which of the three theories is practiced in your country and why.

Answer 1

Three theories of industrial relations are :

• Marxist
• Pluralist
• Unitary

Marxist - from this perspective, the inevitable result of this clash is a Worker revolution, where workers take control of companies, eliminating the capitalist altogether.

advantages :

• Workers get fair share of profits
• Workers take control of company

Pluralist - relationship between emplyers and workers is also one of conflict but not to the extent Marxism portrays it. Through trade unions , workers argue for higher wages, increased benefits and better working conditions, while employers want to keep as much money as they can for profit.

advantages :

• Both sides negotiate to solve problem
• Workers are loyal to both company and union

Unitary - employers and workers are seen as being on the same team or even same family. They have same interests and share the same values and goals . In this model , conflict is seen as distasteful or even evil, both sides strive for consensus.

advantages :

• There is a perfect cooperation between both of them.
• There are many benefits for a small businesses.

Among these three , pluralist theory is practised in India .

there are trade unions which help workers get minimum wages and sometimes higher wages as per requirements of the time .

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