The comparative diversity of industrial relations systems presently existing in the world economy is an extremely broad subject. Poole has attempted to formulate a theoretical model that will describe necessary elements of the industrial relations process and facilitate comparative analysis. He proposes four initial research guidelines: ``(1) a focus on broad societal structure and processes; (2) a multidisciplinary perspective; (3) an explanatory core; and (4) an historical as well as a contemporary dimension'' (p. 8). As an organizing principle, Poole adopts the concept of ``strategic choice,'' which motivates the primary industrial relations actors of employers, labor, and the state. Relationships between those groups are determined by a number of factors. There are, to illustrate, environmental conditions consisting of ``subjective meanings'' (cultural values, ideologies, economic policies, and public and legal policies) and ``structural conditions'' (social, economic, political, technological, legal and demographic). Poole's analytical framework is highly abstract and aims to be comprehensive in scope. There is little detailed treatment of any particular system. At the same time, the work does offer a valuable perspective on the common features essential to industrial relations. Poole's treatment requires some degree of familiarity with the field. University collections.-R.L. Hogler, Pennsylvania State University, University Park Campus
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