Problem is that this is the existing American work culture. We already were pretty much the only developed nation that doesn't have paid vacation and sick leave (not to mention maternity, child care, and of course health care) as standard entitlements. The gig economy not only celebrates this culture, but is made possible by it.

And even when we get paid vacations, we're afraid to take them.

The Protestant work ethic, firmly embedded in american culture, says you live to work, instead of working to live.

"Get any sleep?"
- G. W. Bush
Uniquely American

(Was supposed to be a rely to Sanepride's comment but I hit the wrong button)
Hit the nail on the head there. It is up here in Canada too. I work 20 hours a week and am working on my masters but there is still that expectation that I sell the remainder of my labour. I ask, for what point? There is no purpose to most labour and most just assume that if we all work hard the economy, system, culture, society etc, will be better and all of civilizations goals would be attained.
I have asked many what is the goal of the labour? Most look at me funny, while other merely point to the market, pretending to understand what that is. If they could come up with a good reason I would be more than eager to work and I have. It floods here every spring and volunteers are always needed to sandbag, and we go.

You are right we are a culture that celebrates hard work. It is also our culture to not ask why or we are seen as a burden. the fact is though that most don't, care and why should they they are just as tired as I am, maybe more. It is easier to just work and enjoy the time you have, nothing wrong with that.

On the other hand for someone like me that can't do normal set hours due to health issues these services rock for letting me work when I'm able, something I wouldn't have at all otherwise.

Pimps don't mind when one of their stable works themselves to death because there are plenty more prospects. Pimps generally refuse to be regulated and obfuscate their actual business too. Coincidence?

Soon only the rich will be able to afford prostitutes, and how many sex workers will the job creators really support?

I guess there is only so much trickling down one person can do, no matter how sincere the effort.

Mary’s story looks different to different people. Within the ghoulishly cheerful Lyft public-relations machinery, Mary is an exemplar of hard work and dedication—the latter being, perhaps, hard to come by in a company that refuses to classify its drivers as employees. Mary’s entrepreneurial spirit—taking ride requests while she was in labor!—is an “exciting” example of how seamless and flexible app-based employment can be. Look at that hustle! You can make a quick buck with Lyft anytime, even when your cervix is dilating.

Anyone who sees it this way needs help. Someone putting off going to the hospital when they really need to go to the hospital is not a good thing in any light. Does it make Mary strong and resilient? Yes. Does it show that our system is broken and cruel? Absolutely. The system doesn't get to take credit for Mary's ability to triumph over adversity, especially because that system is the one that creates or at least enables that adversity.

This is just sick.