Universal Basic Income (UBI) Passage (9694_w20_qp_21)

1 So many traditional male jobs have been taken over by computers or robots in the last four decades that it is no longer realistic to expect everyone to work for their living. Wealthy, developed countries should therefore introduce a system of Universal Basic Income (UBI) for their citizens. UBI shares out fairly the benefits of technological advances, because it gives everyone enough money for a basic standard of living. It also enables people to strike a personal balance between enjoying leisure time and earning an increased income by working if they choose to do so.

2 Opponents of this proposal claim that countries cannot afford to introduce UBI, but it is actually funded from taxation on the earnings of those who choose to do paid work. The scheme is affordable, because earnings are taxed at a fairly high rate – although not so high as to discourage people from working.

3 The biggest benefit of UBI is that it improves family life. Both mothers and fathers are able to devote as much time to parenting as they choose. Supporting their children at school and in leisure activities can become a priority and a joy, instead of a chore. Giving parents greater control over the use of their time also promotes the mental health of teenagers; surveys have consistently shown that the most important things adolescents want from their parents are availability and a listening ear.

4 The introduction of UBI enhances the quality of individual and community life, because it gives people time to engage in voluntary work. The state cannot afford to pay for many tasks which need to be performed for the benefit of individuals and the community. However, volunteers have become less available, as budgetary pressures have forced governments to raise the age of retirement and unemployed people have been expected to spend most of their time looking for work.

5 Under UBI, unemployed people no longer have to endure embarrassing medical tests or to prove that they are actively seeking paid work. They are free to use their time in the way they choose, without being expected to feel guilty about it. UBI helps the poorest members of society.