On the efficiency of the Cochrane-Orcutt estimator

Using analytic approximations, we reconcile some radically contradictory evidence and resolve an interesting paradox that occurs in a simple linear model with autocorrelated disturbances. In general, the behavior of conventional coefficient estimators is quite sensitive to the specification of the exogenous variables, or, equivalently, to whether the marginal efficiency or the conditional efficiency of the coefficient estimators is being compared.     

Some new historical evidence on the impact of affirmative action: Detroit, 1972

A sample of Detroit area firms in 1972 is used to determine the effects of affirmative action requirements and other firm characteristics on the recruitment and hiring of women and black men. The results suggest that affirmative action changed firm hiring practices with respect to black males. The unique data set also allows for a test of Becker’s well-known hypothesis that customer prejudice may influence the hiring of blacks or females.     

Ringing the changes? Union recognition and organisation in call centres in the UK finance sector

The massive rise in UK call centre employment in recent years has been closely related to developments in the finance sector. This paper analyses these developments in order to contextualise the organisational experiences of unions in the sector. Recruitment activity in both hostile and compliant employer environments, and findings from the first national survey of call centre employees’ attitudes towards trade unionism, are discussed, and the prospects for union recruitment and organisation are assessed.