Trebor Scholz: Stuck in the gig economy? Try platform co-ops instead | TED

Co-ops date back almost 200 years, run by groups of people that work together to own and operate a company. What does it look like when this tried-and-true business model merges with the digital economy? Trebor Scholz introduces the "platform cooperative," a new way to create democratic companies of empowered workers -- and develop a better, fairer alternative to the gig economy.

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[courtneycalderon]

Co-op work places and co-op living spaces can be a viable solution for the continuous privatization of our natural resources now shifting to real estate and other commodities.

[miroslavhoudek]

I love it.

But what does that mean probably, when in competition with "capitalist" or "individualist" enterprise? These nice people will give themselves solid salaries and offer a solid price to their customer. Plus some small amount to run the platform and pay the management. So what does the individualist industrialist do with that exhorbitant 50 per cent markup that he/she takes from the workers? Pays lawyers and lobbyists to make regulation and obstacles go away. Pays amazing accounts to make taxes (mostly) go away. Pays development team and invests into innovation (robotic house cleaners, robotic taxis or whatever). And pays for advertisement so that the customers will know almost exclusively them. Attracts investors that will foot additional costs for developement and growth.

I feel like I know where this is going. Still, I would support that idea gladly, but the closest digital co-op is like 500 km from where I live.

[onkarvigy]

Hierarchy by itself is not a problem as long as it is not privileged, not orchestrated and not ossified!! If the economy promotes social mobility it is (somewhat) palatable!!.

[copacelu]

Having a voice in a company goes a long way in making you care about your work

[Channelsdotbiz-ydbl]

The social media platform you speak of is now available... For Anyone in the world 🌎

[vcat]

Wanna complicate self-employed business? Find partners...

[MaybeYoureRight-]

🌎TEDx | ahha* 😀😀

🌎 TEDx | Maybe you're right!
And yes,
Maybe you're right 😃😃!

Good health always 😀!

Yes, thank you 😀.

[enricoevangelista]

Use cryptos. Decentralized crypto is more democratic than centralized Federal Reserve dollar owned by the greedy billionaires.

[KevinVanGelder]

The gig economy is the ultimate solution, not something that needs replacing.

[Tobythedog]

I'm sad because I haven't had any subscribers today 🥺🥺

[MaybeYoureRight-]

🌎TEDx | ahha* 😀😀

🌎 TEDx | Maybe you're right!
And yes,
Maybe you're right 😃😃!

Good health always 😀!

Yes, thank you 😀.