Book Review: For Labor to Build Upon: Wars, Depression and Pandemic , by William B. Gould.

"For Labor to Build Upon: Wars, Depression and Pandemic" by William B. Gould IV is a timely book that explores the history, challenges, and potential future of the labor movement. The author emphasizes the importance of contingency and the choices made by labor, employers, and government in shaping the decline of union representation. Gould also examines historical precedents, such as racial discrimination within the labor movement and the relationship between unions and antitrust legislation. The book addresses modern concerns, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on workers and the exploitation of gig workers and college athletes. Gould calls for unions to be more proactive in organizing and recruiting new members, while also suggesting specific labor law reforms. Overall, the book provides a thought-provoking analysis of labor's past, present, and uncertain future. [Extracted from the article]