The parallel between unions and lawyers
I can see a parallel between asking whether unions have a role in IT and asking whether lawyers are needed in the world at all.
- Would the threat or the possibility of litigation make you feel you had any less freedom? (Compare this with the assertations that unions stifle creativity, prevent people from moving around and restrict salaries).
- Even though there is legislation in place to protect your rights, does this mean that everyone respects and is aware of these rights? (Compare this with the comments that there is legislation in place to protect workers and prevent employers taking advantage of them)
- If someone breaks the law should they get away with it? (Compare this with an employer taking advantage of a worker)
- If someone treats you unjustly, should you just accept it or do you run away and hope things are better at your next destination? (Compare this with the inference that it is an employer's right to treat their workers in any way they deem appropriate, aslong as the worker puts up with it, and the suggestion that if the worker is dissatisfied with the situation, they should leave, rather than try to improve things).
If you believe that lawyers or solicitors are not needed in today's world becauseno-one breaks the law, everyone respects the rights of other human beings, when someone takes advantage of you, you should turn the other cheek and if you don't like how you are being treated then simply walk away ... then it is quite possible that you'd also believe that unions do not have a place in IT. Of course the bed of roses wouldn't ever contain a thorn.
Who are you trying to kid?
