Digital Labor Platforms and the Control of Skilled Workers
Aug 26, 2024
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Hatim Rahman, a sociologist of work and technology, sheds light on the rising influence of digital labor platforms, where even highly educated professionals are managed by algorithms. He discusses the paradox of flexibility versus unpredictability and how ratings can dictate a worker's visibility. Rahman explores the diminished protections for contract workers, emphasizing the role of opaque evaluations in job opportunities. The conversation also highlights the impact of algorithms on daily life and the necessity for collective action to ensure transparency and accountability.
The podcast discusses how digital labor platforms, like those for skilled workers, use algorithms to exert control and create unease.
Hatim Rahman emphasizes the increasing prevalence of educated professionals relying on online platforms for employment opportunities and the implications of this shift.
The conversation highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of how technology influences labor dynamics and worker autonomy.
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A large segment of Americans now find work via online labor market platforms — not just low-wage drivers for Uber, but highly educated lawyers and architects, software engineers and data scientists. Sociologist of work and technology Hatim Rahman discusses the ways that algorithms are used to control these workers, intentionally keeping them constantly off guard.