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Source: 30dB.com – Gig%20Economy
While that sounds great in theory—and has indeed worked for many—the automation juggernaut and poor treatment of independent contractors that some companies, such as Uber, have been accused of have made the gig economy less appealing than it used to be. Over the last 30 days, “gig economy” has a 52 percent positive score on Social, with words driving the Vibe like “success” and “thriving,” along with “missteps” and “defeat.” That split in sentiment is most exemplified by the ride-sharing sphere, where self-driving cars are being tested as an eventual alternative to actual human behind the wheel and where Uber in particular has come under fire for allegedly underpaying drivers. Although internal turmoil at Uber forced CEO Travis Kalanick to step down recently, and changes in the culture there could happen, the company, like other big names in the gig economy, doesn’t offer health care benefits or paid time off. How such issues shake out will likely decide if sentiments surrounding the freelance life permanently tilt in the direction of “success” or “nah!” –Alex Shultz
Republished from 30dB