Critical Realist Analysis of Platform Systems' Resistance to Regulatory Interventions: A Case Study of the "I'm in a Hurry" Feature in Iranian Ride-hailing Platforms

Document Type : Original research

Authors

Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran

Abstract

With the rapid expansion of digital platforms, policymakers face new regulatory challenges that traditional frameworks cannot effectively address. This study analyzes the removal and return of the "rush mode" feature in Iranian ride-hailing platforms to explore the mechanisms of platform system resistance against regulatory interventions. The theoretical framework integrates Archer's morphogenetic theory with the realist evaluation CMO approach within a critical realist paradigm. Using directed qualitative content analysis of 360 news articles, 3,000 Telegram messages from drivers, and 1,138 user tweets during 2022-2025, data were analyzed through a four-phase morphogenetic cycle. Findings reveal that despite decisive regulatory intervention, initial adverse outcomes (price increases, driver exploitation, public dependency) were reproduced with greater intensity. Three key mechanisms were identified: dynamic pricing and algorithmic control that actively generate resistance, multidimensional user dependency that prevents effective resistance, and the "absent" agency of algorithms that constitute the most powerful decision-making agent yet remain absent from any accountability processes. The study introduces the concept of "algorithmic morphostasis," which, unlike traditional morphostasis, is active, learning, and generative. The findings reveal the necessity of shifting from command-style regulation to adaptive regulation, demonstrating that self-adapting systems with learning capabilities are inherently resistant to traditional regulatory approaches.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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History

  • Receive Date: 24 May 2025
  • Revise Date: 12 September 2025
  • Accept Date: 17 September 2025

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