Open figure viewer
Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to clarify the dual paradox of French industrial relations. On the one hand, unions are numerically weak and bitterly divided but retain a significant influence. On the other hand, the social climate remains highly conflict-prone and marked by an ideological rhetoric opposing the wealthy oppressors to the exploited masses within a relatively prosperous society.
Design/methodology/approach
– The paper finds a historical explanation in constant features of French society.
Findings
– The paper found that specific concepts of freedom and equality shaped the present organization of industrial relations.
Originality/value
– The paper explains the structure and organization of unions and labor relations through societal elements structured historically.
© Emerald Group Publishing Limited
2014
You do not currently have access to this content.
