Mobilisation theory and industrial action

Gabriella Cioce

Chapter 33 in Theories and Concepts in Work and Employment Relations, 2025, pp 287-294 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter reviews Mobilisation Theory, which was proposed by John Kelly. It starts by introducing the theory and its significance, pointing to ‘shared grievances’, ‘collective identity’, ‘union effectiveness’ and ‘leadership in mobilising workers’ as the processes leading to the emergence of industrial action. After that, this chapter summarises key developments in Mobilisation Theory, for example, Kelly's model's key contributions (a) to conceptualising collective action beyond neoliberal models and (b) in accounting for ongoing, diverse worker mobilisations, including those occurring in non-unionised sectors and gig economy platforms. Then, the chapter looks at the opportunities and critiques of applying this theory, such as the importance of thinking of collective action as resulting from social identification processes (us/them) and the need to distinguish between mobilising and organising, respectively. Finally, the chapter identifies future research venues that can benefit from adopting Kelly's Mobilisation Theory (e.g., the role of precarious workers in building mobilising initiatives).

Keywords: Mobilisation Theory; Industrial action; Kelly; Collective action; Injustice; Precarity (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781035316199
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