Are Unions Good for America?

For the first time in American history, unionized government workers outnumber those in the private sector. While some observers lament the relative decline of private-sector unions, others argue that while they increase wages in unionized industries, they also limit employment opportunities, depress wages in nonunion jobs, lower rates of return on investment in unionized firms, slow the growth of productivity, and distort the political process. Public-sector unions, on the other hand, are insulated from competition and benefit directly from larger, more powerful government. Even so, many people believe that unions are a positive force in American society. How have unions shaped political and economic arrangements in the United States, and has that influence been beneficial? Please join us for a review of the history, impact, and future of unions in America.