Using Universal Basic Income To Fight The Fallout From Automation

The goal of a Universal Basic Income is to reduce poverty, alongside the negative effects that come with it, as well as lead towards freedom of choice in lifestyle and employment. Many people have called for UBI as automation has increasingly became a factor of unemployment in hopes that the system would offset job losses. In a 2018 poll, nearly half of Americans supported the idea of a Universal Basic Income program. This model that was created in hopes to increase equality and reduce poverty has been gaining popularity over time, dating back as early as 1516 with Thomas More’s ‘Utopia’ philosophy. The idea of a Universal Basic Income has been around for a long time, and with the threat of automation, a possible recession, and other societal problems, is it finally time to put a Universal Basic Income to the test?

There are current trials of this method of welfare reform in California and the Netherlands, but the time to experiment may be coming to an end. Some are fearful of the future as it may mean possible decreased wages, threats of recession, and overwhelming debt burdens. Providing a Universal Basic Income could be what creates a more equal a livable society. Learn more about how Universal Basic Income could change society here.