Which phrase best describes the novel's stance toward unregulated labor relations?

Which phrase best describes the novel's stance toward unregulated labor relations?

• A. Embracing unregulated labor markets
• B. Endorsing collective bargaining and unions
• C. Rejecting any form of organization
• D. Idealizing employer control

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is that the novel champions organized labor over unregulated exploitation. Throughout the migrant-worker experience, Steinbeck shows how individuals are easily preyed upon when there’s no collective voice or negotiating power, and he highlights moments where workers come together to demand fair wages, humane working conditions, and mutual support. This emphasis on solidarity and bargaining power points to collective bargaining and unions as the rightful way for workers to counterbalance the power of employers and banks, rather than accepting harsh, unregulated labor practices. The other possibilities miss this critical thread: unregulated markets would leave workers without leverage, rejecting organization ignores the significant scenes of cooperation among workers, and idealizing employer control contradicts the book’s critique of those power structures.

The main idea being tested is that the novel champions organized labor over unregulated exploitation. Throughout the migrant-worker experience, Steinbeck shows how individuals are easily preyed upon when there’s no collective voice or negotiating power, and he highlights moments where workers come together to demand fair wages, humane working conditions, and mutual support. This emphasis on solidarity and bargaining power points to collective bargaining and unions as the rightful way for workers to counterbalance the power of employers and banks, rather than accepting harsh, unregulated labor practices. The other possibilities miss this critical thread: unregulated markets would leave workers without leverage, rejecting organization ignores the significant scenes of cooperation among workers, and idealizing employer control contradicts the book’s critique of those power structures.