Uber happy? Work and well-being in the ‘Gig Economy

From Digital Culture & Society

Contents 1 Article link 2 Overview 3 Research Design 4 Strengths and Weaknesses 5 Assessment

[edit] Article link

https://doi-org.proxy.library.brocku.ca/10.1093/epolic/eiz007

[edit] Overview

Although the gig economy is frequently lauded for its convenience, this essay examines its exploitative character, specifically regarding Uber’s corporate strategy and its effects on drivers. The classification of Uber drivers as independent contractors prevents them from receiving the most important provisions of labor law, including the minimum wage, premium pay, paid medical leave, and unemployment insurance. The absence of these protections make the drivers liable to suffer financial difficulties and exploitation. Uber has an immense measure of control using its algorithm that decides on the fares, allocates rides and influences driver ratings. Such a control weakens the freedom of drivers’ choice. The pay system in the Uber remains in a shadow. Drivers are not paid a fixed amount in a month. Instead, it depends on factors which they cannot control like the weather and traffic in a certain area. In addition, the firm controls a mechanism with which it can disable driver accounts at its will thus rendering drivers without any means of income and legal remedy. In the light of transparency and accountability, Uber comes under scrutiny. To make matters more complicated, the complaints process is complicated and unworkable which leaves drivers with only few means for challenging unjustified decisions or conduct.

[edit] Research Design

This article’s research design used a mixed method approach that combines qualitative elements such as Uber drivers’ experience with quantitative elements like analysis of salary and trends. The authors used various methods such as interviews, survey analysis and financial data to get a holistic appreciation of the plights of the uber drivers. The hypothesis of this article asserts that Uber’s gig economy model is exploitative by nature. The authors wanted to confirm the existence of a system that discriminates and exploits their workers through the various means highlighted.

[edit] Strengths and Weaknesses

This article excels in its accessibility, making it an engaging read for a broad audience. Its educative value is enhanced by clearly explaining the problems associated with the non-employee classification and algorithmic control of Uber drivers.

[edit] Assessment

The article explains how Uber represents the most notorious of the gig economy, one that is replete with exploitation and insecurity for its workers. The power imbalance favouring Uber at the expense of drivers has been caused by Uber’s non-employee classification of drivers, coupled with algorithmic control, unfair compensation practices, and lack of transparency. While offering flexibility, the gig economy does so at the very high personal and social costs to its workers.