Unraveling Gig Battles: Assessing Corporate Power and Regulatory Challenges in the Platform-Based Gig Economy

Abstract

This thesis examines the evolution of corporate power within the context of American capitalism, with a particular focus on the platform-based gig economy. It seeks to understand if companies like Uber represent a distinctive form of corporate power, and, if so, what the implications are for regulatory frameworks and public policy. Central to this investigation is the concept of “gig battles,” a theoretical lens to examine the localized and contentious interactions between platform-based gig economy companies and regulatory bodies (Cherry, 2023). Employing a dual-method approach, this research combines a qualitative analysis of Uber’s regulatory battles in San Francisco and New York City with a quantitative assessment of public opinions from the Pew Research Center’s American Trends Panel data. First, the case study of Uber offers insights into Uber’s strategic responses to regulatory challenges and its efforts to mobilize support. Drawing from the foundational work of Collier et al. in Disrupting Regulation, Regulating Disruption: The Politics of Uber in the United States, the study aims to expand upon existing knowledge, highlighting localized variations in regulatory encounters (Collier et al., 2018). Focusing on San Francisco and New York City, the findings reveal Uber’s capability to leverage an unprecedented, strategic mobilization of users and craft a narrative around its business model. Despite encountering significant regulatory hurdles, Uber has demonstrated adaptability and the ability to shape regulatory discourse to its advantage. Although the specifics of Uber’s regulatory battles vary across different locations, the tactics employed are consistently observed. Second, the analysis of public opinion seeks to quantitatively test the hypothesis that platform engagement influences public sentiment, signaling a new form of influence. In order to do this, this research analyzes the correlation between ridesharing service usage, attitudes toward regulation, and partisan affiliation. The findings suggest that ridesharing users tend to view regulatory measures as less necessary but opinions on the regulation of ridesharing companies are divided along partisan lines. These results demonstrate that although platforms have the potential to influence public opinion about platform regulation, this influence does not overcome the persistent role of partisan beliefs. The study concludes that platform-based gig economy companies like Uber possess unique corporate power, creating challenges for traditional regulatory models. Therefore, there must be innovative regulatory approaches that are localized, stakeholder-centric, and adaptable to the evolving dynamics of the platform-based gig economy. Policymakers must be aware of platforms’ narrative and mobilization strategies, fostering inclusive dialogue with all stakeholders, including users, to develop effective and withstanding policies. This thesis contributes to understanding the complexities associated with platform-based corporate power and its regulatory implications.