The thesis aims to answer the question of whether the sharing economy benefits society and who benefits most from it.
At the beginning, the term sharing economy is defined and the motives for participating in the sharing economy are analyzed. Then, the concept of the sharing economy is explained in more detail using the example of the technology companies Uber and Airbnb. Their business models and the controversies and scandals that surround both companies are presented.
The Greek philosopher Heraclitus already knew 2500 years ago that the only constant in life is change. In a dynamic world that is oriented towards the free market economy, established companies regularly disappear or face new competition from innovative business models that meet the changing needs of consumers. Values and morals change, and people relocate. Nevertheless, it is guaranteed that there will always be providers who keep pace with the times and can react to current trends. One of these current trends is the sharing economy.
Table of Contents
1 Introduction
1.1 Problem definition
1.2 Objectives and structure of the work
2 The Sharing Economy
2.1 Definition
2.2 Motives and Intensity of Use
3 Uber
3.1 Business Model
3.2 History
3.3 Uber Eats
3.4 Controversies
4 Airbnb
4.1 Business Model
4.2 History
4.3 Controversies and Issues
4.4 Goals
5 Conclusion
5.1 Achievement of objectives
5.2 Outlook/ Perspectives
Objectives and Research Focus
This paper examines the impact of the Sharing Economy on modern society, specifically analyzing whether this disruptive model primarily benefits consumers or presents systemic risks. The study investigates the mechanisms of collaborative consumption by evaluating the business models, history, and controversies surrounding the major industry players, Uber and Airbnb.
- Theoretical definition and motivations behind the Sharing Economy.
- Comprehensive analysis of the Uber business model, including its expansion into food delivery.
- Evaluation of the Airbnb business model and its impact on the travel industry.
- Critical discussion of legal challenges, tax avoidance strategies, and social controversies.
- Assessment of future outlooks for platform-based gig economy services.
Excerpt from the Book
3.4 Controversies
Since the very early days, Uber has sparked a backlash from institutions and elected officials, taxi drivers and taxi unions in nations throughout the world. In terms of service rendered, Uber operates a taxi-like enterprise. However, on the grounds that Uber is not officially designated a taxi but a technology company, it is not obligated to obtain official licenses issued by local or municipal to legally operate. These licenses can cost casual taxi companies up to thousands of dollars in metropolitan areas, leaving Uber at a significant cost advantage. Furthermore, most taxi drivers drive as their full-time occupation, whereas Uber drivers only work as freelance drivers. Thus, Uber also does not have to cover expenses such as vehicle maintenance, fuel, insurance and employee benefits. Parts of these cost savings go in hand with lower safety standards.
As a result of these controversies, Uber had to face several lawsuits. In France for example, the company was fined $1.3 million for its violation of local transportation laws. In 2017, the European Court of Justice disagreed with Uber’s argumentation to be an information service society and ruled that the enterprise is a transport service and thus must abide by local transport regulations in the EU member states.
Summary of Chapters
1 Introduction: This chapter introduces the topic of the Sharing Economy and outlines the paper's core objective to analyze its societal impact.
2 The Sharing Economy: This section defines the Sharing Economy as a peer-to-peer model and discusses the underlying motivations and intensity of user participation.
3 Uber: This chapter details the business model of Uber, covering its history, the diversification through Uber Eats, and the significant legal and financial controversies the company faces.
4 Airbnb: This chapter focuses on Airbnb, exploring its unique business model, the history of its growth, the issues surrounding regulation, and its strategic goals for the future.
5 Conclusion: The final chapter summarizes the findings regarding the benefits of the Sharing Economy for consumers while addressing the moral and regulatory challenges that remain.
Keywords
Sharing Economy, Uber, Airbnb, Business Model, Gig Economy, Peer-to-peer, Digital Platform, Collaborative Consumption, Regulation, Taxation, Innovation, Disruption, Travel Industry, Transportation, User Experience
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core focus of this research paper?
The paper provides an in-depth analysis of the Sharing Economy, specifically examining the business models and societal impact of the two most prominent examples: Uber and Airbnb.
What are the central themes explored in the text?
The central themes include the rise of digital platforms, the disruption of traditional industries (such as taxis and hospitality), user motivations, and the resulting legal and ethical controversies.
What is the primary research objective?
The main objective is to determine whether the Sharing Economy truly benefits society as a whole and to identify the primary beneficiaries of this economic shift.
Which scientific methods were applied in this work?
The author employs a descriptive and analytical approach, using literature research, company data, and existing market surveys to evaluate the phenomena of Uber and Airbnb.
What is covered in the main body of the paper?
The main body breaks down the definition of the Sharing Economy and provides separate, detailed case studies for Uber and Airbnb, analyzing their origins, operating models, and conflict points.
Which keywords best characterize this publication?
The key themes are defined by terms such as Sharing Economy, digital platform disruption, collaborative consumption, gig economy, and legal/regulatory challenges.
How does Uber manage to maintain a competitive pricing strategy?
Uber operates as a technology company rather than a taxi service, allowing it to avoid the high costs of official taxi licenses and employee benefits, while utilizing freelance drivers who provide their own vehicles.
What is "ocean income" in the context of Uber?
It refers to a specific tax strategy involving international subsidiaries that enables Uber to shield a significant portion of its non-U.S. profits from U.S. corporate taxes.
What measures has Airbnb taken to restore trust after various scandals?
Airbnb has announced plans for a complete verification of all property providers, more transparent refund policies, and the introduction of a 24/7 hotline for neighbors to report issues.
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- Felix Lesch (Autor:in), 2020, The Sharing Economy. Airbnb and Uber as Business Models, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1011812
