Abstract

The essay outlines the fundamental link between industrial relations and union cultures, on the one side, and the consolidation of pluralist democracy in the Italian experience, on the other. In this scenario Piero Boni stands out as an exponent of a socialist/reformist union culture, as a dyed-in-the-wool supporter of the autonomy of trade unions from political parties, and as a promoter of pluralism and of the principle of union unity, which has disappeared today. As a trade unionist, Boni showed full commitment to shaping new industrial relations to attain common economic and social development goals.