[czep]

There's probably some element of the Prisoner's Dilemma at play here. I'd join a union if I knew that we'd all have normal working conditions, no forced or coerced overtime, guaranteed health care, a pension plan, and a reserve in case of strike (the only thing unions have to negotiate with management). I'd accept a sizable pay cut if all that could be brought to the table.

But unless there's critical mass, it's every code monkey for his or herself. So I contract myself to the highest bidder and wait for the revolution :)

[solipsism]

Why would a pay cut be involved? It's not clear to me the would be a pay cut. And without a pay cut how is the Prisoners Dilemma relevant?

[dsacco]

In principle there is a pay cut if you have to pay dues, if nothing else.