These seven symposium papers examine the record of federal intervention in the workplace and focus on the forces that gave rise to federal intervention. Although a precise calculus for evaluation has not yet been designed, the presenters attempt to assess whether federal actions have served the interests of labor, management, and the public at large. Reagan administration efforts to limit the federal role are also scrutinized. The papers are "The Role of Workplace Regulation" (Ray Marshall), "Redefining Government's Role in the Workplace" (Kenneth McLennan), "Pluralism in Worker Protection" (Garth L. Mangum), "The Distortions of Cost-Benefit Analysis as a Guide to Regulatory Strategy" (Susan J. Tolchin), "The Role of OMB" (Nancy Wentzler), and "Last, But Not Final Word: Protecting American Workers" (Sar A. Levitan). (YLB)