From Factors to Actors: Networks and Network Theory in Comparative Industrial Relations

Brandl, Bernd

Abstract

In this chapter it is explained that industrial relations can be described by networks of different actors. Therefore, social network theory and analyses is an ideal approach to understand industrial relations phenomena and outcomes. It is argued that network approaches are also able to address the challenge that industrial relations are becoming increasingly complex. Against this background in this chapter the reasons why network theories and analyses are ideal approaches to understand research phenomena in comparative industrial relations are explained. On that basis the chapter proposes the use of new methodologies that exploit the advantages of computational methods. More specifically it is argued and explained why simulation methods as agent based models are promising tools for future theoretical and empirical research in the field of industrial relations.

Citation

Brandl, B. (2022). From Factors to Actors: Networks and Network Theory in Comparative Industrial Relations. In B. Brandl, B. Larsson, A. Lehr, & O. Molina (Eds.), Employment Relations as Networks: Methods and Theory. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003125730

• Online Publication Date: Jul 15, 2022
• Publication Date: 2022-07
• Deposit Date: May 18, 2022
• Publicly Available Date: Jan 16, 2024
• Publisher: Routledge
• Edition: 1st ed.
• Book Title: Employment Relations as Networks: Methods and Theory
• Chapter Number: 6
• ISBN: 9780367646547
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003125730
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1622028