What is the difference between a closed shop and a union shop?
They are both the same. Check the definitions at this site.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/closed%20shop
In contrast, see these definitions for open shop.
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/open%20shop
A closed shop and a union shop are two types of employment arrangements related to labor unions. Although they share some similarities, there are some differences between the two:
1. Closed Shop: A closed shop is a workplace where the employer can hire only union members. Therefore, to get a job in a closed shop, a person must first become a member of the respective labor union. This means that even if someone is highly skilled and qualified for a position, they cannot be hired unless they are a part of the union. The closed shop concept has been mostly banned in many countries, including the United States, due to its potential violation of individual rights and freedom of association.
2. Union Shop: A union shop, on the other hand, is a workplace where an employee is not required to be a member of the union when they are hired. However, once employed, they must join the union within a specified period, typically a few months. This arrangement allows non-union employees to work alongside union members, but after a certain period, they are expected to join the union and pay membership fees. This requirement helps support the union's efforts to negotiate workers' wages, benefits, and other terms of employment collectively.
To summarize, the main difference between a closed shop and a union shop lies in the requirement for union membership at the time of hiring. In a closed shop, only union members can be hired, while in a union shop, non-union employees can be hired but are expected to join the union later.