University of Twente Student Theses
Exploited workers or proud innovators? : Explaining social identities in the platform economy
Küstermann, Leon (2018) Exploited workers or proud innovators? : Explaining social identities in the platform economy.
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| Abstract: | Based on recognizing the need to better understand work-related identities in the platform economy this research will analyse the following question: To what extent and why are platform workers identifying with each other? Therefore, based on a multidimensional conceptualisation of identity a theoretical framework will be developed, which explains identification both with workers from the same platform and with workers from platforms operating in different fields. In order to test this framework quantitative survey data has been collected – complemented by semi-structured interviews – which have been analysed in a series of multiple regression analyses. It reveals that identification with other workers is still a relevant phenomenon in the platform economy, which can be mainly explained by social interactions among workers. But also, two on the first glance conflicting narratives, one based on class thinking and one based on a positive opinion on the platform economy are influencing identification in a complex but interesting coexistence. Finally, it will be shown how this complex form of identification might conflict with the narratives of political initiatives, which are trying to represent the interests of platform workers. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Bachelor) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 88 social and public administration |
| Programme: | Management Society and Technology BSc (56654) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/75468 |
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