The Worker Directors

by Peter Brannen, Eric Batstone, Derek Fatchett

First published in 1976, The Worker A Sociology of Participation offers an exploration of industrial democracy and the role of worker participation in corporate decision-making. Drawing on extensive research and case studies, the authors delve into the emergence and implementation of worker-director schemes, with a particular focus on the British steel industry during a period of significant economic and social change.

The book examines the evolution of participation in the 1960s, the challenges of organizational adjustment, and the dynamics of worker representation at the boardroom level. Through detailed analysis, the authors provide a nuanced understanding of the experiences, challenges, and contributions of worker directors, while also situating their findings within a broader European context. With its rich sociological insights and practical implications, The Worker Directors remains a seminal work for those interested in industrial relations, organizational change, and the sociology of work.

290 pages, Hardcover

Published March 31, 2026