Why do industrial conflicts occur? Are their economic effects exaggerated, as many economists claim? And why are they seen as a serious social problem? Richard Hyman analyses the factors which spark off a strike, and the implications of striking for the worker, employer, trade union and society in general. He shows how sociologists can assess and interpret industrial conflict; how society's reactions to industrial disputes are generated; and the role of strikes within industry and society. The revised edition of this well-established book looks at the effects of inflation and wage control on striking, and its incidence since 1971.