The article examines the influence of the United States' wage stabilization program on collective bargaining. The bargaining process involves opposing arguments from management and union leaders who want to avoid the basic issues of wealth redistribution and profit motive. They negotiate an agreement that satisfies their members and allows each party to save face while resuming their positions in a power relationship. Wage stabilization becomes a third force in the bargaining process, interferes with supply and demand, and is an intervention that lowers living standards. Topics include the mediation process used by the United States Conciliation Service, the stabilization formula, and the Wage Stabilization Board.