Labor Relations: Striking a Balance

John Budd continues to present the most dynamic, engaging approach to understanding labor relations in the 21st century with Labor Relations, 4/e. This textbook presents labor relations as a system for balancing employment relationship goals (efficiency, equity, and voice) and the rights of labor and management. By weaving these themes with the importance of alternative perspectives on the nature of the employment relationship throughout the text, students can learn not only how the traditional labor relations processes work, but also why these processes exist and how to evaluate whether they are working. In this way, students can develop a deeper understanding of labor relations that will help them successfully navigate a contemporary labor relations system that faces severe pressures requiring new strategies, policies, and practices.

John W. Budd is a professor in the Industrial Relations Center at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management where he holds an Industrial Relations Landgrant Professorship. Professor Budd has taught labor relations to undergraduates, professional Master’s students, and Ph.D. candidates and has received multiple teaching awards. He is also the author of the award-winning “Employment with a Human Face: Balancing Efficiency, Equity, and Voice” (Cornell University Press) and has published numerous journal articles relating to work and labor relations.