Is workplace democracy associated with wider pro-democracy affect? A structural equation model

Abstract

Using structural equation modelling, this article examines the hypothesis that employees can learn about democracy through employee participation in workplace decision-making, thus resulting in more positive attitudes toward democracy in the wider political arena. The research finds that workplace democracy is strongly positively associated with increased interest in politics and wider pro-democracy affect. This result holds true even when controlling for reverse causality and the confounding influence of trade union membership. The article suggests that work can have an important effect on wider governance at the level of the community and the state.