The Gig Economy and the Future of Work: Employment and Labor Law in Transition

This article, published in the 2015 'Harvard Law and Policy Review', examines the growing 'gig economy' and its impact on traditional employment and labor law. Authors Seth Harris and Alan Krueger argue that the rise of platform-based work, independent contracting, and on-demand services is transforming the nature of work. They explore the implications of this shift for worker rights, including minimum wage, overtime, and benefits. The article also analyzes the challenges and opportunities presented by the 'gig economy' for policymakers, employers, and workers alike. It provides insights into the legal and economic complexities of this evolving employment landscape and offers perspectives on how labor law might need to adapt to address the unique challenges posed by this new form of work.