Is Organizational Justice the New Industrial Relations? A Debate on Individual Versus Collective Underpinnings of Justice

Abstract

AbstractThis study is based on a debate about the nature of two intellectualdomains, industrial relations (IR) and organizational behavior (OB). RayHogler (Colorado State University) argues that the distinguishing featureof IR is its collectivist approach to work and organizations. As OB cameto dominate the academic landscape, the research landscape shifted to amicroanalytical focus. In consequence, business schools have failed toengage with the social problem of inequality of wealth. Early figures inAmerican economic development, such as John D. Rockefeller, Jr.,offered a more expansive vision of firms and labor than the current intel-lectual climate driven by an agency theory of management aimed at short-term profit. In his response, Stephen Gilliland (University of Arizona)asserts that the individualistic orientation of organizational justice pro-vides a much more strategic and aligned approach to employee–employerrelations. Unions provide a broad brush approach grounded in adversar-ial relationships and unfairness. By satisfying individual interests of fairtreatment, leading through organizational justice provides benefits foremployees, organizations, and their stakeholders. Fair treatment ofemployees has a ripple effect that impacts customer treatment and satis-faction. Whether the organization’s strategy is based on value, customerservice, or innovation, organizational justice can be aligned with strategicgoals for the benefit of all.The theme for the 73rd annual meeting of the Academy of Management held in Orlando, Florida, was“Capitalism in Question.” Broadly, the conference theme challenged historical notions of capitalismregarding market competition among profit-driven firms, wage employment within these firms, andlimited government over them. New to the academy meetings at the 2013 conference were plenarysessions—one sponsored by each division. For its plenary session, the Conflict Management Divisionsponsored a debate on organizational justice as it pertains to the conference theme. The debate dialoguewas transcribed, and an edited version of the discussion and the intellectual contribution from thetranscription is presented in this manuscript.