"Why Unions Matter proves with irrefutable statistics and persuasive analysis that unionized workers in every part of the economy get more pay and better benefits than employees who do comparable work but do not belong to a union. " "Yet economic gains and job security are just the starting point for this informative book. It is just as significant, argues Michael Yates, that unions inspire power, solidarity, and dignity in workers, with great consequences for their lives. ". "Why Unions Matter does not, however, make excuses for existing trade unions. Faced with a decades-long loss of membership, the union movement urgently needs new approaches, argues Yates. Providing sound practical advice on many topics, including what makes a collective bargaining campaign effective and what approach unions should take in electoral politics, Yates calls for a more independent, tough-minded, democratic, and politically progressive labor movement. "--BOOK JACKET.