Work in the Digital Age: A Coursebook on Labor, Technology, and Regulation, First Edition

The first of its kind, this coursebook examines the work of the future. Work in the Digital Age: A Coursebook on Labor, Technology, and Regulation focuses on certain technologies: the platform economy and gig work, big data and people analytics, gamification, artificial intelligence and algorithmic management, blockchain technology, drones, and 3D printing. The book provides perspectives on these new and emerging technologies from employers, unions, individual workers, national courts and governments, and international organizations. Altogether, the book questions whether current systems of labor and employment regulation are adequate and appropriate to respond to these new technologies. Finally, the book examines potential policy solutions to technological unemployment including universal basic income, shorter hours, and job guarantees. The best way to shape the future of work is to create the policy changes that we wish to see now, and this book provides a blueprint for thinking about a future of work that is productive, efficient, equitable, and sustainable.

Professors and student will benefit from:

• A focus on certain technologies:
  • The platform economy and gig work
  • Big data and people analytics
  • Gamification
  • Artificial intelligence and algorithmic management
  • Blockchain technology
  • Drones
  • 3D printing

• Global perspectives on these new and emerging technologies from employers, unions, individual workers, national courts and governments, and international organizations
• Exploration of whether new systems of labor and employment regulation are necessary to better respond to these new technologies
• Discussion of potential policy solutions to technological unemployment including universal basic income, shorter hours, and job guarantees
• Notes and Questions, Problems, Exercises, and Examples, to help reinforce concepts and issues