Question #1: To what extent would you agree or disagree with the following statement: "Strikes are an intrinsic and essential element of the collective bargaining process. If labor loses its ability to strike, it will be powerless."? What are the potential risks or costs that the parties might likely face during or because of a work stoppage, and how can these risks and costs be reduced or managed?
Question #2: Why is discipline frequently the most significant issue for both labor and management? Has this significance shifted or changed over time? If so, explain how and why. Then, discuss and explain in detail the difficulties or challenges that management may have in administering the following work rule in accordance with the disciplinary principles discussed in your textbook: "Any employee reporting to work under the influence of alcohol will be subject to discharge." What should the employer do to reduce these difficulties and challenges, and why should they take these actions?
Question #3: Discuss the similarities and differences between arbitration and judicial (court) hearings with particular emphasis on the common law of the shop, admission of evidence, and the role of the decision-maker (arbitrator versus judge). Then, explain why arbitrator's written decisions are usually lengthy when a one-sentence statement could tell the parties who was right and wrong.