The labor movement to labor unions: A longitudinal study comparing public and private sector labor unions and the effect of legislation, law, economic, and political ideology on union membership density

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to identify union membership density fluctuations as a result of economic factors, political ideology, legislation, law, rate of exchange, and the unemployment rate. This study looks at national indicators as determinants of public and private sector union membership density. This study includes a quantitative and qualitative comparative study of public and private sector labor unions.;Theoretical framework. The theoretical foundation for this work was informed by systems theory, which functions as the framework allowing integration of other theories focusing on the relationship of legislation, law, economic, and political ideology changes relative to union membership. Other applicable theories supporting this work are public choice, power and politics, and Marxism/economic theory.;Methodology. Based on secondary data primarily from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau (1999, 2000), and L.Troy and N. Scheflin's 1985 Union sourcebook: Membership, structure, finance, and directory, this study employs a graphical analysis of key legislation, law, and events against total, public, and private labor union membership density and their longitudinal trends. Parametric statistics, correlations matrix, and multiple linear regression or ordinary least squares regression was performed using SPSS in order to demonstrate and examine the impact of legislation, law, economic, and political ideology factors and its relationship and/or influence on union membership density growth patterns longitudinally from 1930 to 2003 and 1948 to 2003.;Findings. Strong relationships were identified between legislation, law, economic, and political ideology and public and private union membership density levels. The findings also revealed these factors influenced the variability more in the private sector union membership density than public. Gross domestic product was revealed as being the most influential factor affecting the variability in both public and private sector growth patterns.;Conclusions and recommendations. In conclusion, this study suggests the state of the economy inclusive of globalization effects matters substantially more in private union membership growth patterns than in public. Public administrators should take note of how these factors have influenced private sector growth patterns, and labor unions and employers should seek more collaborative strategies that would prove to be beneficial for all concerned.