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(Government) A continuing problem for interest groups is the free-rider problem.

ID: 415336 • Letter: #

Question

(Government) A continuing problem for interest groups is the free-rider problem. A free rider is one who enjoys the benefits of a group but does not join it. An example is a worker who does not join a labor union but still receives the union-negotiated wages, benefits, and vacations. Unions, of course, want anyone who receives the benefits to belong to the organization. (This is called a closed shop.) Many states have passed right-to-work laws that forbid a closed shop. Should people who enjoy the benefits of a union be required to join? Can a union be effective if people are not required to join? (80-100 words)

Explanation / Answer

Yes, I personally feel that people who enjoy the privileges of a union member should formally join union and works for the betterment of employees, he/she should also face the troubles and issues that a union member face and should not just enjoy the luxuries of a union member. Also, no, a union cannot be as effective if it is not mandatory for the people to join. It should be made compulsory to become an official union member so as to enjoy the luxuries of a union member because a person who does not join the union would not be serious towards the job and would not put 100% efforts.