Philippine E-Journals

Industrialization and the Role of Trade Unions

Leopoldo J. Dejillas

Discipline: Business and Economics

 

Abstract:

Industrialization is a process of unfolding new realities. It is often times associated with new technologies, new discoveries and inventions, and even new processes and ways of doing things. As these new realities emerge in society they create corresponding changes, which may he drastic and dramatic, on the structures of preindustrial societies as well as on the values and culture of the people. Industrial life changes, Managers may give way to entrepreneurs, while trade unions may be compelled to take on new roles and functions responsive to the needs of industrialization. Labor relations may thus he affected and may require changes to respond to new realities. Some individuals, however, may have difficulty adjusting to new structures and cultures. They may have a hard time understanding the changes going on around them, even as others may no longer be able to properly focus on the goals toward which industrialization leads. At its worst, people may tend to fight against each other either for survival or for sheer power and influence. If this sets in, industrial disorder may erupt and may eventually lead to social chaos or disintegration.