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Universal Basic Income
An idea whose time has come
The idea of a basic income for everyone has been around for centuries. While we generally assume that society should take care of those who cannot care for themselves, the idea that governments should guarantee their citizens a minimum level of income is more controversial, but is gaining in popularity.
It is gaining in popularity because a guaranteed basic income may be one solution to economic disparities caused by our fast-changing work environment. New treaties and technologies have upended traditional businesses like manufacturing, printing and retail while recessions and pandemics have put millions out of work. It can be difficult for the average worker to keep pace with these changes. In fact, there may come a time when there are not enough jobs for everyone.
Certain jobs are safe and creative work will always be unique, but some predict that 40% of jobs will be replaced by artificial intelligence and advanced technology in the next 15 years. These are jobs like bookkeeping and data entry, proofreading, manufacturing and pharmaceutical work, retail, courier services, research analysts, soldiers, and security guards. Customer service is being replaced by chatbots; auto-check-ins are used in hotels and airports and self-driving cars could automate taxis and buses.
