Crowdworker*innen zwischen Autonomie und Kontrolle

Using the example of crowdwork, the article describes the changes in power relations between capital and labour through the use of algorithmic work control systems on digital platforms. The starting point is the widespread assumption that algorithmic systems could exacerbate the direct and repressive control of labour. By contrast, the author explores to what extent the consent and active participation of the crowd is also mobilised in algorithmic management on crowdwork platforms and what role technology plays in this process. The results highlight that both consent and participation are necessary to stabilise the division of labour even in the comprehensive systems of algorithmic management. A central mechanism for this is information asymmetries: they regulate the crowd’s knowledge and options for action. This indirect and subtle form of control obscures and perpetuates the work and power relations by providing some degree of autonomy. This seems to be necessary in order to maintain a relationship of control over the mobile and independent crowd and secure its effective exploitation through self-discipline.