The TED Audio Collective is a collection of podcasts for the curious. Subscribe on YouTube:
We don’t know about you, but we are fans of weekends. And social security. And health insurance. And the end of child labor! And all of these workplace protections exist because of the advocacy of labor unions. In this episode, political scientist Margaret Levi shares the long history of organizing labor and explains how unions create equality and protect worker rights. She also discusses her optimism about today’s young workforce and why she believes that an equitable future requires a revival of the labor movement. Listen to more How to Be a Better Human wherever you get your podcasts.
The TED Audio Collective videos may be used for non-commercial purposes under a Creative Commons License, Attribution–Non Commercial–No Derivatives (or the CC BY – NC – ND 4.0 International) and in accordance with our TED Talks Usage Policy (). For more information on using TED for commercial purposes (e.g. employee learning, in a film or online course), please submit a Media Request at
sophia isabelle
September 4, 2023 at 7:04 am
The fact that many workers are more or less willing to do more than what’s expected of them is impressive. I know for certain I wouldn’t quite live up to everyone’s exoectations when working.
Петър Иванов
September 4, 2023 at 8:08 am
I believe it is the gift of God, Jesus Christ that gives them the strength because love is strength and you can find limitless love in the gift of Jesus Christ and in God.
Emilio G.
September 4, 2023 at 12:47 pm
@Петър Ивановwhat if you don’t believe in god? Can I take credit for my own hard work?
mimosveta
September 4, 2023 at 7:05 am
sh must be super bad in lamerica, when even ted is talking about communist type organizing. obviously, they do it about writers rather than railroad workers and such, but, it’s a start! proletariat of the world, arise!
The American American
September 4, 2023 at 7:18 am
What??? TED showing pro union content? Nice
Natewatl
September 4, 2023 at 6:02 pm
It’s Labor Day! 🎉
izumocore
September 4, 2023 at 7:33 am
Hard pass.
ultrakool
September 4, 2023 at 7:59 am
Karen: So, what do you do for a living?
Henry Hill: I’m a union delegate.
Of course, he wasn’t, but that’s all you need to know how things work with unions🙄
Петър Иванов
September 4, 2023 at 8:07 am
Read the bible and you will become a better person. Let God give you his strength and you will MASSIVELY improve your life and your character.
Emilio G.
September 4, 2023 at 12:50 pm
Tell your pastor. I don’t buy all the stories. Religion keeps people from thinking for themselves
Love your enemy
September 4, 2023 at 7:41 pm
@Emilio G.Christianity understands our fallen nature. Communism doesn’t.
DIBASH Ff
September 4, 2023 at 8:20 am
So many smartasses here, I see everyone knows about crypto, but nobody made money on it like I did – thanks to Cannafarm Ltd.
Mͥᴏɴͣsͫᴛᴇʀ
September 4, 2023 at 8:20 am
Ditch the volatile crypto market and focus on real-world investments. Discover the potential of Cannafarm Ltd in the medical cannabis sector!
Happy English Class
September 4, 2023 at 8:20 am
More and more companies are integrating cryptocurrency into their operations. Its actually interesting because it opens the door to investments. I would say its the new financial future. I recently started collaborating with Cannafarm Ltd, and it seems
random
September 4, 2023 at 8:20 am
Here we go again, market analysis in circles. Finally, Bitcoin moved, but nothing grows like the plants in Cannafarm Ltd, they can bring profit, thats the real deal.
Dev yadav
September 4, 2023 at 8:20 am
I dont get the point of discussing ICOs or cryptocurrency arbitrage when theres an opportunity to invest in the medical cannabus industry with Cannafarm Ltd! It skyrocketed after the pandemic!
Vhrff
September 4, 2023 at 8:20 am
Wait, do you think cryptocurrency will crash? I dont think so. More and more companies are integrating cryptocurrency into their operations: Amazon, Cannafarm Ltd, Burger King, even Starbucks, dude!
Tes1
September 4, 2023 at 8:21 am
In times of uncertainty, investing in stable industries is key. Explore the ever-growing medical cannabis market with Cannafarm Ltd!
spidey1093
September 4, 2023 at 8:21 am
Learn from the mistakes of others who have lost money in cryptocurrencies. Invest in a tangible and growing business like Cannafarm Ltd!
King Djuan
September 4, 2023 at 8:22 am
Not all investment platforms offer the level of security that Cannafarm Ltd does. Experience their rigorous standards and enjoy peace of mind.
Stacy Jaye
September 4, 2023 at 8:51 am
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. I’ve been in unions all my life, starting with AFSCME when I was a custodian at the schools, and later a Teamster when I drove a truck. I was clean-cut, hard-working, and gave the company their money’s worth. I was able to live decently on my own, thanks to the unions. My friends call me Norma Rae at times. 💪👍😁
Austin Denotter
September 4, 2023 at 3:37 pm
And look what you did to Detroit.
Stacy Jaye
September 4, 2023 at 3:53 pm
@Austin Denotter a lot of Detroit’s problems stem from the fact that there’s no reliable public transportation. They made it that way figuring that everyone would have to buy cars. I tried to do good while I live there LOL
Bob Frantz
September 7, 2023 at 1:46 am
Unions are run by crooks who live off the working man’s wages
Krunoslav Stifter
September 4, 2023 at 9:46 am
Yeah, that is what Marx said. “Workers of the world, unite!” But you know, real socialism has been tried before. Its a very, very bad idea.
Bearheart™
September 6, 2023 at 8:46 am
You seem confused.
Krunoslav Stifter
September 6, 2023 at 8:49 am
@Bearheart™ Do I? How much do you know about history of the unions, comrade?
One party roulé
September 6, 2023 at 9:02 am
@Krunoslav Stifter Enough. That you appear think people who support unions are communists only reinforces my previous claim. I can only assume you’re American, lol.
P.s I thought you would appreciate this username more. Not sure you’d get the irony though.
Meanderin Oranges
September 4, 2023 at 9:49 am
Unions don’t empower workers. Unions enslave them.
Calvin Dodge
September 4, 2023 at 9:58 am
Labor unions also create corruption. And they can’t compete on a level playing field, so they need government to tilt things their way. That’s why US labor unions support the neo-Commies (D).
Brian Kramp
September 4, 2023 at 11:07 am
I was excited to hear this episode as I keep hearing reasons why we don’t need Unions but not enough about why we need them. Unfortunately nothing in this podcast actually covered why we need them despite the title. Someone recommend a book or something for me to learn from.
Jesse Torres
September 4, 2023 at 11:11 am
Reminder: The whole reason Labor Day exists is that it was a day factory workers in the U.S. would go on strike if they felt they weren’t being paid enough or had unsafe work conditions, & they would remain on strike until their bosses met with them to meet at least some of their demands. Back in the late 19th & early 20th centuries, if Labor Day worker strikes occurred they were very successful in benefiting the lives of unions, but nowadays so few Americans are in unions at a time when we desperately need them.
Dreka Rangvaldr
September 4, 2023 at 9:46 pm
United We Bargain Divided We Beg
Hung Like Horse
September 4, 2023 at 11:29 am
You forgot to add how left leaning all Unions are. How they promote laziness and soft willed people.
And let’s not forget that most unions are corrupt as he’ll and the top leadership takes massive salaries for doing little work. Perfect example is the Teamsters.
ronold cross
September 4, 2023 at 12:49 pm
Both my parents were union.
Both had worked in non-union jobs.
Pay, health care, pensions, worker safety, etc. Were from unions –
I worked non-union.. min pay, no benefits, no job security. Worker safety not a priority.
UNIONS give better pay, better benefits, worker security & conditions, health care, retirement, etc.
Piku☆🌱
September 4, 2023 at 1:19 pm
Any company that tries to union bust should be legally required to convert into a worker owned coop.
Austin Denotter
September 4, 2023 at 3:36 pm
The most snivelling comment ever
pincherfly
September 4, 2023 at 11:31 pm
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
Labor unions, such as the Writer’s Guild of America, provide benefits like minimum weekly rates, health care contributions, and potential pensions for their members.
Unions derive their strength from members standing together and protecting each other’s rights and benefits, even in the face of potential financial loss.
Labor organizing encompasses various fields beyond traditional industries, including education, healthcare, tech, and even comedy writing.
Collective power and solidarity can be valuable tools in achieving common rights and protections.
Labor unions have evolved over time from craft unions in the medieval guilds to industrial unions that organized all workers in specific industries.
Challenges faced by unions include high dues, corruption, bureaucracy, and opposition from governments and corporations.
The decline in union membership is due to both internal issues within unions and external campaigns against them.
Public perception of unions has shifted, with increased awareness of workers’ rights and just workplaces, partly driven by the pandemic.
Unions have worked on societal issues, such as the weekend, social security, and healthcare, benefiting not only their members but society as a whole.
For those seeking to organize, there are resources and organizations available to provide guidance and support.
The power imbalance between employers and employees is a challenge, but publicity, public support, and legal recourse can help level the playing field.
Environmental activism offers valuable lessons in mobilizing public awareness and addressing pressing issues, which can be applied to labor movements.
The ability to share information through media and social platforms has changed organizing, but capturing and controlling the narrative remains crucial.
Understanding labor history, such as through books like “State of the Unions” by Nelson Lichtenstein, can provide insights into the labor movement’s evolution and relevant moments for shaping the future.
25:25 Labor history is relevant for understanding the impact of unions and their absence on legislation and society.
28:11 Various experiments and strategies are being used in modern labor organizing, with some proving successful.
29:06 The perception of unions can change over time, with many recognizing their importance in protecting workers’ rights.
30:27 While not 100% unionization, comprehensive laws and regulations are essential to ensure fair compensation and working conditions for all.
32:05 The labor movement, particularly the ILWU, exemplifies building inclusive communities and acting in the interest of others, contributing to being a better human.
Made with HARPA AI
laili ridzuan
September 4, 2023 at 11:31 pm
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
Labor unions provide workers with benefits such as minimum weekly rates, healthcare contributions, and protection from mistreatment by employers.
Union strength relies on members’ willingness to stand together, even if it means sacrificing money and work opportunities.
Labor organizing goes beyond traditional sectors like manufacturing; it includes education, healthcare, technology, and more.
Collective power can be used in various aspects of life, not just within unions, to advocate for rights and protections.
Labor unions have a long history, originating from craft and industrial unions, and have played a significant role in shaping workers’ rights.
Challenges faced by unions include high dues, corruption, bureaucracy, and opposition from governments and corporations.
Public perception of unions has evolved, with increasing awareness of workers’ rights and the importance of fair treatment.
Initiatives like social media and publicity campaigns can help raise awareness and mobilize support for labor movements.
Environmental activism serves as an inspiring example of organizing, and social movements can learn from each other to effect change.
Capturing the narrative and countering misinformation is crucial for successful labor organizing in the digital age.
Educating oneself about labor history and relevant books can provide insights into the evolution of labor movements and their potential for the future.
25:40 Unions played a significant role in passing legislation like the New Deal, despite controversies and resistance.
26:36 Unions reflect a collectivist tradition, emphasizing solidarity and community, which contrasts with America’s individualist tradition.
27:43 Ongoing experiments in organizing and new forms of unionization are emerging, particularly in places like warehouses and Starbucks.
28:38 Rethinking the structure of teachers unions, police unions, and hospital workers unions to benefit both workers and the general public is crucial.
29:06 Personal experiences often lead people to appreciate the importance of unions in protecting workers’ rights and interests.
30:27 While not necessarily 100% unionization, ensuring that labor laws protect workers and their rights is essential.
31:09 Unions are vital for advocating political power and pushing for economic changes that benefit workers in a diverse labor force.
32:46 Margaret Levy’s experience with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union taught her the importance of building an inclusive community of fate, emphasizing acting in the interest of others.
Made with HARPA AI
Emmy Tan
September 4, 2023 at 11:31 pm
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
Labor unions provide workers with benefits such as minimum weekly rates, healthcare contributions, and protection from mistreatment by employers.
The strength of labor unions depends on members’ willingness to stand together and protect each other.
Labor organizing extends beyond traditional industries like garment and steel to education, healthcare, tech, and more.
Collective power can be applied to various aspects of life, not just within unions, to promote common rights and protections.
Labor unions historically played a significant role in societal issues, including achieving the weekend, social security, and healthcare.
Union membership has declined due to factors such as high dues, corruption, and anti-union campaigns by governments and corporations.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of essential workers and increased awareness of labor issues.
Building solidarity and inclusive communities of fate is crucial for successful labor organizing.
Resources and organizations are available to help individuals and groups in organizing efforts.
Social movements, like environmental activism, can inspire and inform labor organizing, fostering positive change.
Capturing and shaping the narrative is essential in organizing efforts to counter misinformation and biases.
Educating oneself about labor history and important moments in the labor movement is crucial for informed advocacy and activism.
25:40 Labor unions played a significant role in shaping legislation, like the New Deal, but faced resistance from certain segments of the American public.
26:36 Unions are rooted in a collectivist tradition, emphasizing solidarity and community, while America has a strong individualist tradition.
27:29 There are ongoing experiments in different forms of unionization, especially in places like warehouses and Starbucks.
29:06 Personal experiences often change perceptions about unions, with many individuals coming to appreciate their importance after seeing workplace challenges.
30:27 While not necessarily 100% unionization, comprehensive laws and regulations ensuring fair treatment and compensation for all workers are essential.
31:51 Higher union membership can lead to more political power, which can drive economic and social changes, especially in a diverse labor force.
32:46 Margaret Levy highlights the importance of the labor movement, particularly the ILWU, in fostering a sense of community and acting in the interest of others.
Made with HARPA AI
Ina MR
September 4, 2023 at 11:31 pm
🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
Labor unions, like the Writer’s Guild of America, can provide benefits such as minimum weekly rates, healthcare contributions, and protections for workers.
Labor organizing has evolved to include various industries, including education, healthcare, technology, and even comedy writing.
Collective power and solidarity are essential in labor organizing, and unions are strengthened by members standing together.
Labor unions have a history dating back to the Navy mutinies in the 19th century, with craft and industrial unions playing crucial roles.
Unions have contributed to societal improvements, including the establishment of social security, healthcare, and the concept of the weekend.
Union membership decline is partly due to high dues, corrupt leadership, and opposition from corporations and some governments.
The pandemic has amplified the need for labor reform and drawn attention to essential workers.
Building solidarity and mobilizing the public through campaigns and support networks can help those trying to unionize.
The environmental movement can inspire labor unions to better address societal issues and engage with younger generations.
Capturing the narrative and countering misinformation are critical in modern labor organizing.
Educating oneself about labor history and reading books on the topic, such as “State of the Unions” by Nelson Lichtenstein, can help in understanding the labor movement’s past and future.
Unions played a significant role in shaping legislation, such as New Deal policies, although they remain controversial to some.
Labor history encompasses achievements of unions, opposition to them, the consequences of their decline, and emerging forms of unionization.
Personal experiences often lead individuals to recognize the importance of unions, as they struggle to bring about change alone.
A world with 100% unionization might not be practical, but comprehensive rules and regulations are crucial to protect workers.
Labor unions have evolved to include a diverse workforce and are essential for political power to advocate for workers’ interests.
Building inclusive communities and acting in the interest of others are core values demonstrated by some labor unions, fostering a sense of solidarity.
Margaret Levy’s work with the International Longshore and Warehouse Union highlighted the importance of community and acting on beliefs for the greater good.
Made with HARPA AI
Bob Frantz
September 5, 2023 at 2:18 am
Right to work should be nationwide…unions blackmail employers and workers
Bob Frantz
September 5, 2023 at 2:18 am
Complete b.s.
Chatarina
September 7, 2023 at 3:29 pm
Great episode!