The Universal Basic Income Is the Safety Net of the Future: A Debate

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Summary

Imagine getting a check from the government every month—$600 or $1,000 guaranteed. It’s happening in Finland and other countries, where pilot programs are being launched to test what is known as a ...

Imagine getting a check from the government every month—$600 or $1,000 guaranteed. It’s happening in Finland and other countries, where pilot programs are being launched to test what is known as a “universal basic income.” Such programs, supporters argue, simplify the social safety net, combat poverty and income inequality, treat all citizens equally, and provide a cushion for workers, giving them latitude to take risks in the job market. But to afford such a program, opponents point out, the government would have to eliminate the rest of the safety net, such as Social Security, food stamps, and housing vouchers. A universal basic income, they argue, would take away the incentive to work, waste money on those who don’t need it, and come at the expense of targeted and effective programs that help the poor. Is the universal basic income the safety net of the future?

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