@article{THESIS,
      recid = {14663},
      author = {Zhang, Jessie},
      title = {Combatting the Algorithms: How Chinese Delivery Riders  Survive and Thrive in the Platform Economy},
      publisher = {University of Chicago},
      school = {B.A.},
      address = {2025-03},
      number = {THESIS},
      abstract = {The burgeoning platform economy has given rise to a new  form of gig labor, providing flexibility yet entrenching  workers in a precarious state of existence. In this paper,  I investigate the paradox of technological innovation and  deteriorating labor conditions, focusing on the case of  China’s food delivery industry. Drawing on published  sociological ethnographies and firsthand social media  accounts from delivery riders, I find that the delivery  platform enforces pervasive yet covert digital surveillance  on riders through acting as the enabler, mediator, and  evaluator of the delivery process. Platforms also  restructure labor relationships to evade employer  responsibilities and legal obligations. I argue that the  platform, despite appearing to be a neutral agent, has  enforced “submerged algorithmic management” that  systematically dictates, monitors, and disciplines workers’  behaviors in ways that remain largely invisible to them.  Despite the tightening grip of digital control, riders  demonstrate creative resistance by leveraging algorithmic  loopholes and solidarity networks. I conclude by  highlighting recent legislation and public policies aimed  to uplift the working conditions of delivery riders.},
      url = {http://knowledge.uchicago.edu/record/14663},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.6082/uchicago.14663},
}