| Summary: | From a review of sociological theory, and the main features of the
South African labour environment, the enquiry was designed to identify
pressures for change amongst South African industrial workers.
Research involved 554 workers in five industrial situations, ranging
from that peripheral to 'black homeland' areas to that of settled
urban workers in metropolitan Durban, and 43 managers and supervisors.
Factor analysis of data revealed three themes (the 'social dynamics' )
in terms of which workers responded consistently. The first was the
causative integration dynamic, the second the responsive dynamic of
orientation to change. The interaction of these dynamics defines
the nature of internal labour relations. Successful management of
these dynamics demanded effective conmunication and involvement. The
third theme was identified as the adherence dynamic, representing extrinsic
pressures or responsibilities compelling workers to find employment,
and inhibiting or regulating their freedom of egress. The
external environment is beyond the control of management, and is influenced
by both government policy and general economic conditions.
Conclusions are that historic restrictions on labour mobility and residence
in South Africa have contributed significantly to conditions
hindering achievement of South Africa's full growth potential. Growth
impediment arises from accumulation of workers in work situations not
of their choice, from which they cannot easily escape, and in which
they become increasingly uncommitted and alienated. This contributes
to gradual development of potential conflict which, considered generally assumes the character of that based on social divisions of class and
race. However it also explains, through the example of South African
industry, how it is possible for societies to function over long periods
of time when significant levels of internal conflict and opposition
remain within the bounds of equilibrium.
Capitalism in South Africa is seen in the context of an interdependent
spiral of gradual economic decline and rising political discontent.
Essential steps in its reversal would include removal of all restrictions
on personal freedom of movement, and urgent integrative management
strategies.
South African industry is compared with American and Japanese industry
in the social dynamics context. The study draws independent support
from, and lends support to theory evolved in United States industry
from work done particularly by Hirschman (Hirschman, A.O., 1970), and
Sayles (Sayles, L.R., 1958). === Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Durban, 1986.
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