LSA Discussion Question
QUESTION
180 words
NOTE: Read the post below and answer any 1 question (out of three). This is an Ethics class.
Instructions
Smartphone driven services like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash allow customers to quickly and
easily arrange for a ride or get food delivered. At the same time, they also provide just
about anyone with a driver’s license and a working automobile the ability to earn money
as drivers.
For many people who work for these companies, the goal is simply to earn additional
income over and above their primary job. Others prefer the freedom and flexibility of “gig
work,” and may be employed in freelance or contract work in a variety of roles
simultaneously.
At the same time, some people would prefer the stability, benefits, and job protections
normally associated with full-time employment to apply to all workers. In addition, union
leaders, as well as some politicians, have criticized the growing gig economy for reducing
the bargaining power of workers and giving more control to corporations.
Reacting to the rapid growth of the ride-share companies, California passed a law in 2019
that required companies to treat contract workers as employees. In reaction, Uber, Lyft,
and DoorDash threatened to cease operating in the state, and then supported a ballot
initiative known as Proposition 22. Prop 22, as it is known informally, modified the 2019
law by allowing drivers to remain classified as independent contractors but to be eligible
for some benefits, such as better pay and accident insurance (Conger & Browning, 2021).
Prop 22 passed in November 2020 with 59% of the vote, which seemed to settle the issue.
However, in August 2021 a judge in California ruled that Prop 22 was unconstitutional for
several reasons, including a provision that prevented drivers from unionizing (Conger &
Browning, 2021). The ruling will most likely be appealed in the future, meaning that this
controversial issue will be with us for some time to come.
As you write your initial post this week, consider the following questions:
Question 1: Much of this controversy seems to revolve around the
concept of freedom. Should companies like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash be
free to run their businesses as they see fit? Should drivers have the
freedom to unionize? Whose freedom is more important?
Question 2: Many employers now operate using a combination of full-
time employees and contract workers. From the employers’ perspective,
this allows for greater flexibility, and gives people who don’t want to work
full-time an opportunity to contribute. On the other hand, this
arrangement may also be seen as creating a hierarchy in which the full-
time employees earn better pay and benefits while the contract workers
don’t share equally in the prosperity. From the standpoint of equity, are
companies that rely heavily on contractors treating all their workers
fairly?
Question 3: Have you ever had a gig job? If so, how does that impact your
view of this issue?
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