Digital Working Lives: Worker Autonomy and the Gig Economy

The digital gig economy is transforming the world of work, threatening to displace traditional labor relations and undermine workers' autonomy. This book argues that digital technologies should be transformed into tools that support human development rather than subordinating it to algorithmic control, and that a politics that transforms digital platforms into convivial tools that obey the rhythm of human life is the best guarantee for human autonomy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 170 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The impact of recent advancements in digital technologies on the world of work is nothing short of revolutionary. A new digital gig economy is emerging, posing a significant threat to the traditional labor relations based on legally regulated labor contracts. Companies such as Uber, Deliveroo, and Amazon Mechanical Turk have increasingly relied on a workforce of "independent contractors" who earn piece-rate wages by completing tasks through their smartphones. While this development may appeal to workers seeking greater autonomy, it raises important questions about what workers autonomy means in the digital age.

In this book, we argue that the digital gig economy undermines workers autonomy by placing digital technology in control of workers' surveillance, leading to exploitation, alienation, and exhaustion. To create a more sustainable future of work, we must transform digital technologies into tools that support human development rather than subordinating them to algorithmic control. The best guarantee for human autonomy is a politics that transforms digital platforms into convivial tools that align with the rhythm of human life.

The digital gig economy has created a new landscape of work where workers are increasingly at the mercy of algorithms and digital platforms. This has led to a loss of control over their work lives, as employers can set their own terms and conditions, monitor their performance, and terminate their contracts with little to no notice. Workers are also subjected to constant surveillance, with employers using digital technologies to track their movements, monitor their social media activity, and even listen in on their conversations.

This level of control over workers' lives has led to exploitation, as employers can pay workers lower wages than they would be entitled to under traditional labor contracts. Employers can also set unrealistic expectations for workers, demanding that they work long hours, work in hazardous conditions, and perform tasks that are beyond their physical or mental capabilities. This can lead to exhaustion, as workers are forced to work tirelessly to meet their employers' demands, often at the expense of their own health and well-being.

Furthermore, the digital gig economy has contributed to alienation, as workers are disconnected from their work and their colleagues. Workers are often working in isolation, without the support of a traditional workplace community or the benefits of collective bargaining. This can lead to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and disempowerment, as workers feel that they have little control over their work lives and no voice in decision-making processes.

To secure a more sustainable future of work, we must transform digital technologies into tools that support human development rather than subordinating them to algorithmic control. This means creating a workplace that values workers' autonomy, respects their rights, and provides them with the support and resources they need to thrive.

One way to achieve this is by promoting worker cooperatives and collective bargaining. Worker cooperatives are businesses that are owned and controlled by their workers, who share in the profits and decision-making processes. Collective bargaining is the process of workers negotiating with their employers to set terms and conditions of work that are fair and equitable.

By promoting worker cooperatives and collective bargaining, we can create a workplace that values workers' autonomy and provides them with the support and resources they need to thrive. This can lead to a reduction in exploitation, as workers have greater control over their work lives and are able to negotiate fair wages and working conditions.

Another way to transform digital technologies into tools that support human development is by promoting digital literacy and skills training. Digital technologies are rapidly changing the way we work, and workers need to have the skills and knowledge to adapt to these changes. By promoting digital literacy and skills training, we can ensure that workers are able to thrive in the digital gig economy and are not left behind.

Digital literacy involves the ability to use digital technologies effectively and safely, including the ability to use computers, smartphones, and other digital devices. Skills training involves the development of specific skills and competencies that are in demand in the digital gig economy, such as data analysis, digital marketing, and web development.

By promoting digital literacy and skills training, we can ensure that workers are able to compete in the digital gig economy and are not left behind. This can lead to a reduction in unemployment and inequality, as workers are able to find new and innovative ways to work and earn a living.

In conclusion, the digital gig economy has created a new landscape of work where workers are increasingly at the mercy of algorithms and digital platforms. This has led to exploitation, alienation, and exhaustion, as workers are subjected to constant surveillance, have little control over their work lives, and are paid lower wages than they would be entitled to under traditional labor contracts. To secure a more sustainable future of work, we must transform digital technologies into tools that support human development rather than subordinating them to algorithmic control. This means promoting worker cooperatives and collective bargaining, promoting digital literacy and skills training, and creating a workplace that values workers' autonomy and respects their rights. By doing so, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future of work that benefits all workers, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538173732