What is the definition of "collective bargaining"?

The definition of "collective bargaining" refers specifically to the negotiation process that occurs between employers and a union that represents employees. This process involves discussions to agree on various working conditions such as wages, benefits, hours of work, and other employment terms. The goal is to reach a collective agreement that outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the employers and the employees represented by the union.

This choice is the most accurate as collective bargaining is fundamentally about the relationship between organized labor (the union) and management, allowing workers to negotiate collectively rather than as individuals, thereby strengthening their negotiating power. It is a critical process in labor relations and is protected under various labor laws, making it an essential element of industrial relations.

In contrast, the other choices do not capture the essence of collective bargaining. For instance, individual negotiations between an employee and employer do not involve a union and thus do not represent collective interests. Informal discussions about workplace conditions lack the structured and formal nature of collective bargaining, which typically involves formal representation and legal backing. Lastly, a legal process for terminating employment does not align with the concept of collective bargaining, as it pertains to different employment practices rather than the negotiation of terms and conditions of employment.