Social Institutions and Economic Performance: Studies of Industrial Relations in Advanced Capitalist Economies

Increasingly, the ability of Western capitalist economies to compete in the global marketplace is being called into question. While Japan has moved to the center of worldwide attention as a model of economic resiliency, the astonishing economic performance of Germany, argues Streeck, merits further study as well. As in Japan, the German economy is supported and governed by strong social institutions of a non-market character, particularly the political organization of economic interests of both capital and labor. In this fascinating volume, Streeck examines the institutional conditions necessary for a high-skill, high-wage economy; the social regulation of employment contracts; differences in the structure of business and labor's interest associations; the organization of small businesses in Germany; co-determination in German industry; the competitive success of the German automobile industry; and the influence of European integration on interest representation in Europe. Professionals and students in political science, sociology, industrial relations and business and management will find this volume to be of great interest and value. "Streeck provides a valuable consideration of the social arrangements which have contributed to German economic success." --Sociology "For those who do not know Streeck's work, this is an ideal introduction to one of the most interesting thinkers in social science today, whose work defies easy characterization and spans sociology, economics, and political science. For those already familiar with his work, this collection confirms his high reputation. . . . Even when one disagrees with him, Streeck is rewarding to read. These essays move interest grouptheory to a new level and provide dim outlines of a new social democratic political economy. Along the way, they shed light on German political economy, and the process of European integration. This volume exemplifies the range and originality of Streeck's work." --Economic and Industrial Democracy "Readers interested in industrial relations will find the book very interesting and insightful, especially about the rich institutional structure of Germany. Streeck's book will certainly stimulate theory on the implications of social institutions for other countries." --Contemporary Sociology