If I didn't like my working conditions, I would look for a different job.
I know some experienced, socially adept, smart, etc. friends who have been doing this exact thing for about 8 months now.
> If I didn't like my working conditions, I would look for a different job.
What an odd comment.
gig work is popular because the people doing it are finding that it is the best of all alternatives available to them.
Gig work is "popular" because wealth-driven systemic pressure is replacing FTE with gig jobs in order to fatten the bottom line.
they have the choice - because they have agency. Slavery is literally taking that agency away. Having agency doesn't mean being immune to the consequences.
The consequences of a slave "choosing" to not work is punishment and death.
The consequences of a gig worker choosing not to work is to claim basic benefits (but hardly will die). It's uncomfortable, and i will bet most people will choose to work, but it doesn't mean someone is forcing them.