Globalization and Labor: Democratizing Global Governance [Paperback]

Unions have long been a central force in the democratization of national and global governance, and this timely book examines the role of labor in fighting for a more democratic and equitable world. In a clear and compelling narrative, Dimitris Stevis and Terry Boswell explore the past accomplishments and the formidable challenges still facing global union politics. Outlining the contradictions of globalization and global governance, they assess the implications for global union politics since its inception in the nineteenth century. The authors place this key social movement in a political economy framework as they argue that social movements can be fruitfully compared based on their emphases on egalitarianism and internationalism. Applying these concepts to global union politics across time, the authors consider whether global union politics has become more active and more influential or has failed to rise to the challenge of global capitalism. All readers interested in global organizations, governance, and social movements will find this deeply informed work an essential resource.Dimitris Stevis is professor in the Department of Political Science at Colorado State University. Terry Boswell (19552006) was professor in the Department of Sociology at Emory University.

This book is very well written and constructed. By basing their arguments in a political economic perspective, the authors are able to fully describe national, regional, and international governance. This book would be great for classes that wrestle with the problems and potential that globalization poses for the labor movement. Jeffrey Cornelissen,Labor Studies Journal

A significant and timely contribution that will advance the urgent debate swirling around the relationship between labor and global governance. Robert O'Brien, Professor of Global Labour Issues, McMaster University

This thorough and clearly written book is an essential read for those who wish to understandl3$