Uber tries to push its drivers’ buttons: Behavior steered by social science Even

Question

Uber tries to push its drivers’ buttons: Behavior steered by social science Even as Uber talks up its determination to treat drivers more humanely, it is engaged in a behind-the-scenes experiment in behavioral science to manipulate them in the service of its corporate growth — an effort whose dimensions became evident in interviews with several dozen current and former Uber officials, drivers and social scientists, as well as a review of behavioral research... The article identifies and explains some of the tactics used to encourage Uber drivers to keep driving. These are similar to tactics used by video game programmers such as badges, inconsequential rewards, and reminders of progress towards goals. Because Uber has complete control over the driver interface, and because - as independent contractors, Uber drivers don't have the protections associated with an employer-employee relationship, the company has a free hand to experiment with these techniques. The company's goal is to strike a balance between rider demand and driver supply at the lowest cost to passengers and the company. These tactics can prod drivers into working longer and harder — and sometimes at hours and locations that are less lucrative for them. For the complete article go to:

http://digital.olivesoftware.com/Olive/ODN/SanFranciscoChronicle/shared/ShowArticle.aspx?doc=HSFC%2F2017%2F04%2F05&entity=Ar02503&sk=75AEFAE3 In your opinion this is...

a. Ethical and Legal

b. Unethical but legal

c. Ethical but Illegal

d. Unethical and Illegal

Explanation / Answer

Since the drivers who drive for Uber are treated as independent contractors, so they don’t enjoy the protections enjoyed by employees. Hence Uber can afford to conduct social experiments which can influence the contractor’s behavior without worrying for legal implications.

However these experiments tend to push drivers to put in more hours than what is healthy and thus Uber is definitely engaging in a practice which is unethical.

So correct answer is

b. Unethical but legal

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