Uber app open on a mobile phone

This new podcast explores the darker side of the ‘sharing economy’

Apps like Uber, AirBnB and Task Rabbit are changing the way we work, but are they giving people more opportunity and freedom or simply exploiting labor without providing any real job security?

Here's a new series of podcasts from a group called Economics for Transition. The first one looks at what's often called 'the sharing economy' and questions whether it's really as positive as some of the companies behind it claim.

Apps like Uber and AirBnB have made it easier to get a taxi ride or find a place to stay for millions around the world. They've also enabled lots of people to earn money independently, using their own car or property to provide a service for others.

For some, this marks a step forward in the way we work, providing new opportunities for people to earn a living. For others it's a step backwards, taking away the benefits and protections - like holiday pay, sick pay, and guaranteed hours - that traditional affords.

Have a listen and see what you think...

What do you think about the 'sharing economy'? Have you had positive or negative experiences of using or working for app-based services like Uber?

If you'd like to write for us about this topic or any other, please get in touch via contribute@ecnmy.org.

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