A sociological exanimation of the causes of British inter-industrial strike patterns 1950-1969

Abstract

This thesis examines inter-industrial strike-patterns over a twenty-year period to approach an understanding of striking as a form of social action. The influential concept of the ‘industrial society’ is first critically examined with the conclusion that it contains several inadequacies; substantive and theoretical; both in its implications for theories of industrial relations and as an analytical label for the wider societal context. The employment relationship in capitalist society is examined together with types of industrial action; both individual and collective, and a model constructed which sees strikes as dependent on two variables the occasion for dispute; based on the employment relationship, and the ability to take action; based on the existence of a trade union. Trade unions are then examined and their limitations and potential discussed. The meaning of strike-action to the striker is considered and a congruence suggested between the strike as a type of action and working-class orientations to work.