Social perception of the impact of AI algorithms on human work: the example of platform-mediated courier and driver work in Poland

Motivation: The use of automated management for allocating tasks, monitoring and evaluating the service of platform workers operating through digital labor platforms (DLPs) has given rise to numerous threats to human work. The article identifies the emergence of DLPs as a kind of institutional disruption that requires changes in the existing institutional order. The draft EU Directive on improving working conditions in platform work makes it worthwhile to discuss its provisions regulating algorithmic management, including the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on human work.

Aim: The aim of the article is to examine what adult Poles think about changes in the labor market institutions involving the shift towards human oversight of the AI-assisted automated management of platform work. It presents the findings of the Author’s survey on society’s attitude towards regulating how AI is used for managing a popular type of food delivery and passenger transportation services, ordered and executed through DLPs.

Results: The survey showed that respondents perceive AI control of platform work as a legitimate, modern development that ensures service quality and safety. Yet, they are also in favor of human oversight of decisions made by AI algorithms. The survey findings are relevant in view of implementing the provisions of the said EU Directive in Poland.