Breaking the Managerial Silencing of Worker Voice in Platform Capitalism: The Rise of a Food Courier Network
研究外卖骑手如何利用声音机制反抗平台资本主义中管理者的压制，揭示技术既促进又抑制工人声音，而骑手并非被动接受，而是主动探索新途径以影响工作条件。
Abstract This paper examines food couriers’ utilization of voice mechanisms as mobilization against employer silencing within platform capitalism. The concepts of ‘worker silence’ and ‘worker voice’ are used to facilitate an understanding of the way in which workers respond to workplace problems, as well as their capacity to respond within this specific context. Findings illustrate the role of technology as a facilitator but also inhibitor of worker voice. In particular, online food delivery companies’ over‐reliance on algorithmic management and their online app drove couriers to silence. However, in reaction to managerial silencing, we show that couriers are not passive recipients of forces beyond their control, and attempt to explore new trajectories and modes of voice in order to influence their working conditions. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.