Harley Shaiken

Aims to provide fresh perspectives on the tension between the promise of export-led growth and the pressures of globalization, and concludes that depressed wages can make firms competitive in the short run but do not lay the basis for positive development.

Argues that the pervasive decline in union density is a matter of importance to citizens because unions play a vital economic role, and a strong labor movement is a cornerstone of a democratic society.

Reports on an innovative transnational educational effort by Berkeley’s Center for Latin American Studies and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers that sent representatives to worksites to inform union members and leaders throughout North America on the realities of the global economy and the importance of the union’s role on trade policy.

Examines three dimensions of Mexico-U.S. trade: first, the overall nature of the trading relationship, focusing on “revolving door” exports; second, the emergence of Mexico as a high quality, high productivity exporter; and third, the institutional factors shaping the disconnect between Mexico’s increasing productivity and low real wages.

Discusses changes in technology and manufacturing practice, and those shifts’ effects on labor and the economy in South America.

Looks at ways in which Mexico’s high-tech sector could exercise significant influence on wages and working conditions in the United States.

Explores the impact of computerization and other burgeoning technological advances on Mexico’s export economy and labor structures.

Combines insider views of industrial life as it is lived – by workers, engineers, and managers – with analyses of the problems and opportunities created by computer technology.