The Case for Dialogue and Dispute Resolution in the Future@Work

Abstract

The changing U.S. labor market and new economy work structures are generating a rich debate about the future of work. There are far-reaching ideas for improving worker wages, benefits, bargaining rights, and job quality. Most of these proposals depend on successful legal or legislative outcomes. Political realities and past defeats going back at least to 1978 presage the challenges that lie ahead. Largely missing from the debate, however, is a more pragmatic solution that requires neither a willing legislature nor a sympathetic court.