Bardonomics

Photo: TNS, YP The gig economy has attained rockstar  status among academic circles. Ever larger numbers of people are pursuing work with companies like Uber, Lyft, and Airbnb—it is forecasted that in America, currently at the forefront of the gig economy, some 40% of workers will be involved in freelance work instead of, or in addition to, formal, contractual employment.  This non-contractual work is the essence of the gig economy. A traditional job comes with a suite of benefits, generally including health insurance, pensions plans, and paid holiday. Gig economy jobs typically lack any such benefits.  The term was coined during the financial crisis of 2009 to describe the phenomenon of the unemployed working several part-time jobs, but it were Silicon Valley companies that thrust the term back into popular usage. The gig economy has been bolstered by the ease of participation—anyone with a spare room can earn money through Airbnb, and anyone with a car can become a t