ABSTRACT

In this chapter, the author discusses the implications of his argument for industrial relations research and industrial relations policy—although the two are very closely linked. New theory of industrial relations (NTIR) recognises that any of the ‘non-organization-negative’ frames of reference could in principle form the basis of a stable industrial relations (IR) system. The different dimensions of the IR context would lend themselves well to use as a framework for comparative analysis of national and sectoral IR systems, for example if used to structure a qualitative comparative analysis. NTIR allows us to make a series of predictions not just about the nature of industrial relations IR contexts under the different frames of reference, but about the effect of ideological and institutional coherence, opposition and transformation. Jurgen Habermas argues that while communicative action can and does occur within formal organizations, its validity basis is undermined.