Adam Smith and the Gig Economy: What He Would Have Done About Freelancer Precarity

Published on January 17, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Conceptual illustration of Adam Smith reflecting on the modern economy with gig worker icons, digital platforms, and a broken invisible hand, along with artificial intelligence and networked cooperative elements.

Adam Smith and the Gig Economy: What He Would Have Done About the Precariousness of Freelance Workers

Explore fresh ideas on how Adam Smith would address current challenges in the gig economy and the instability of freelancers

Smith's View on Market Failures

Smith would see that the invisible hand does not operate well in this environment. He would argue that it is urgent to restore balance with new structures that strengthen workers.

Key Problems:
  • Precariousness in gig jobs
  • Lack of bargaining power ⚙️
The invisible hand fails when one party dominates the exchange.

Proposal for Digital Guilds

Smith would promote decentralized cooperatives that unite drivers, designers, and delivery workers. These would use group AI to debate and negotiate with platforms.

Main Benefits:
  • Better rates and advantages
  • Fair working conditions

Conclusion

This idea generates counterpower and balances the market with digital guilds and collective AI