Recent Advances In Labour Economics

First published in 1984. This book presents a great deal of research findings, new advances in theory and comprehensive overviews of key aspects of labour economics. It examines the latest trends in the field and assesses the impact of recent policies together with the likely impact of proposed policies. This study covers a wide range of topics but concentrates in particular on questions connected with the economics of trade unions which is a major area of concern for labour economists.

This volume of essays attempts to examine and analyze recent developments in economic analysis. The essays cover implicit contract theory, job search model, bargaining theory, profit sharing models, institutionalist perspectives and other relevant issues.

First published in 1984. This book presents a great deal of research findings, new advances in theory and comprehensive overviews of key aspects of labour economics. It examines the latest trends in the field and assesses the impact of recent policies together with the likely impact of proposed policies. This study covers a wide range of topics but concentrates in particular on questions connected with the economics of trade unions which is a major area of concern for labour economists.

First published in 1983. This text is designed to enable intermediate and advanced students to attain familiarity with the theoretical concepts used in labour market analysis, and to apply them fruitfully to the economic problem of labour markets. Each chapter of Section I deals with a different theoretical development of the basic labour market model of utility maximising labour supply and the marginal productivity theory of labour demand. In addition, the authors discuss in depth uncharted territory including the analysis of uncertainty and discrimination in labour markets and advances in human capital theory, in each case covering the implications both for equity and the efficient allocation of resources. Each chapter of Section II analyses an important economic problem - for instance wage determination, unemployment and inflation - using the theoretical insights derived from Section I. The contributions of different theoretical developments are assessed by reference to the current state of empirical research into labour market problems. This book stresses the interaction between labour market mechanisms and also between market and non-market forces in the belief that this will lead to a greater understanding of the operation of the labour market than can be gained by viewing each theoretical development in isolation from the others.

Labour economics as a discipline has changed dramatically in recent years. Gone are the days of a "job for life". These days, firms and employees are part of a less regulated, more fluid, and more international labour market. Knowledge, training, human resource development and human capital are all major factors on the contemporary scene. This new textbook is the first properly international textbook to reflect these swingeing changes. Its key areas of concentration include: the increasing importance of human capital including education and occupational choice the major subdivision of personnel economics including economic inactivity and absenteeism comparative cross country studies and the impact of globalization and migration on national labour markets equal opportunities and issues of discrimination on the basis of race, gender and disability conflict at work, including both strikes and, uniquely, individual disputes. Other issues explored include the supply and demand of labour, wages, the current role of trade unions, bargaining and conflict, and working time. The book is written in a clear, accessible way with some mathematical exposition, reflecting the text’s grounding in current microeconomic theory. The book also contains case studies designed to illuminate theoretical concepts and exercises and discussion questions to test the students understanding of the various concepts outlined in the text.

In developing countries, labour markets play a central role in determining economic and social progress since employment status is one of the key determinants of exiting poverty and promoting inclusion. Yet the reality in most developing countries is that the labour market fails to create the jobs in the formal economy that would help individuals and their families prosper. In recognition of these challenges, governments and other stakeholders in developing countries have increasingly prioritised policies and programmes to promote decent work. However, this requires navigating a range of complex issues and debates surrounding the linkages between development processes and labour market outcomes. This volume consists of three main thematic parts. Part I provides a broad overview of key issues, including characterising the employment challenge in developing countries and the link between economic growth, distribution, poverty and employment. Drawing on the literature and country examples, Part II analyses the specific topics of wages, migration and education. The final section shifts to a more normative focus, addressing labour market institutions and policies, along with systematic approaches to quantifying labour markets in developing countries. Perspectives on Labour Economics for Development is an invaluable reference for policy-makers in middle- and low-income countries as well as an ideal handbook for teachers and students of economics and development.