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Journal of Labor Economics Vol. 18 No. 1 2000

Strategic Delegation and Delay in Negotiations over the Bargaining Agenda

Michael Conlin1; Taiji Furusawa2

1 Cornell University · 2 Yokohama National University

Abstract

This paper develops a game‐theoretic model that endogenizes the items included in the bargaining agenda. The model's equilibria suggest two possible sources of inefficiency: (1) exclusion of items from the bargaining agenda and (2) delay to agreement due to negotiations over the bargaining agenda. Evidence from union contract negotiations is provided to demonstrate the relevance of these sources of inefficiency. The model also allows strategic delegation by the union. In certain equilibria, the surplus‐maximizing union selects wage‐maximizing delegates (such as senior union members) to negotiate the contract.

DOI
10.1086/209950
Volume
18
Issue
1
Pages
55-73
Language
en
Sources
openalex crossref

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