Erick Kabara

Brenda Martin

12-5-2024

Exploring Universal Basic Income: Navigating Challenges in the Automation Era

Introduction

Technological innovations bring with them possibilities and difficulties in our ever-

changing environment. The growing disparity between socioeconomic groups is one of these

issues. The possibility of millions of jobs being lost to automation highlights the need for a

review of our social safety nets. Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a crucial solution that needs in-

depth research to fully comprehend its possible effects. The existing models of employment and

income distribution are clearly insufficient as we stand on the cusp of a new age characterized by

automation and technological innovation. While efficiency and advancement are promised by

automation, it also poses a threat to widen already-existing gaps, marginalizing millions of

people in the process. Under these circumstances, the idea of Universal Basic Income (UBI)

shows great promise as a radical yet realistic solution to today's socioeconomic problems.

Background: The Rise of Automation and Economic Disparity

Technology's rapid development, especially in the areas of automation and artificial

intelligence, has caused a tsunami of change in many industries. Although these technologies

have the potential to boost economic development and productivity, they also bring up important

issues regarding the distribution of wealth and the nature of employment in the future. Concerns

over unemployment and economic inequality grow as robots take the place of human labor in

many industries. In the past, the idea of a job has been a fundamental component of society
architecture, offering people a feeling of purpose and belonging in addition to monetary stability.

But the unstoppable advance of automation poses a danger to upend this paradigm, making

traditional work patterns outdated and depriving many people of a stable source of income. As a

result, there is a growing need to find a complete solution to deal with the problems that

automation presents (Ciaian et al.). Some argue against the need for universal basic income

(UBI), pointing to issues with work ethic deterioration and economic sustainability. Their

differing viewpoints highlight how complicated this problem is. But ignoring UBI's wider social

and economic advantages undervalues its potential as a transformational instrument.

Examining Diverse Perspectives: Debating the Viability of UBI – Proponents and

Opponents

The debate over Universal Basic Income (UBI) is rife with differing viewpoints, which

reflects the complexity of the problem and the range of possible outcomes. Is universal basic

income (UBI) a workable answer to the socioeconomic problems brought on by automation and

economic inequality? This is the key topic at stake in this discussion. issues about UBI's

potential unexpected repercussions and economic viability are legitimate issues raised by its

detractors. For example, fiscal conservatives contend that the introduction of universal basic

income (UBI) would put an unmanageable strain on public coffers, hence creating inflationary

pressures and jeopardizing long-term fiscal stability ((Wooldridge et al). Furthermore, they argue

that universal basic income (UBI) would make people less likely to work since they would

choose to rely on guaranteed income rather than actively look for job. They contend that this

might result in a drop in economic growth and productivity, which would eventually exacerbate

socioeconomic inequality rather than lessen it. In addition to economic issues, opponents of

universal basic income (UBI) often voice worries about possible social and cultural
repercussions. Some worry that universal basic income (UBI) may weaken people's work ethics

and sense of personal accountability, creating a culture of apathy and dependence. Furthermore,

they contend that universal basic income (UBI) could just offer a band-aid solution that does

nothing to address systemic problems like social mobility, healthcare, and educational

opportunities, failing to address the underlying causes of poverty and inequality ((Ciaian, et al.,

2976). On the other hand, proponents of universal basic income present a strong

counterargument, citing an increasing amount of actual data and theoretical justifications for its

effectiveness. According to data from global trials and experimental projects, universal basic

income (UBI) can significantly enhance mental health outcomes and reduce poverty, among

other elements of society. In an era of swift technological advancement, universal basic income

(UBI) aims to preserve social fairness and human dignity by providing a minimum income to all

individuals, so that no one is left behind. In addition, proponents contend that because UBI

releases people from the restrictions of financial instability and allows them to follow their

hobbies and interests, it may open up new avenues for creativity and innovation (Ghatak et al.,

900). They contend that this may result in an economy that is more robust and dynamic, marked

by a rise in entrepreneurship and a fairer distribution of income. The argument over whether

universal basic income (UBI) is feasible is, in general, complicated and multifaceted,

representing a wide range of values, interests, and worldviews.

Acknowledging the Opposition: Finding Common Ground

It's critical to recognize and discuss the wide range of viewpoints that exist on this

divisive topic in the debate over universal basic income (UBI). Supporters of universal basic

income (UBI) argue that it should be implemented to combat economic inequality and act as a

safety net against automation, while detractors have legitimate doubts about its viability and its
unexpected consequences. Opponents of the UBI have cited its alleged lack of fiscal

sustainability as one of their main concerns (Wooldridge et al., 70). Opponents contend that

imposing a universal basic income (UBI) will put an unsustainable strain on the economy and

result in higher taxes or inflation. Concerns have also been raised over the possibility that

universal basic income (UBI) may discourage people from working, as people might choose to

live off the basic income instead of actively looking for a job. These worries are legitimate, but

they also emphasize how complicated the situation is. In fact, the introduction of universal basic

income (UBI) marks a substantial divergence from conventional welfare models and demands

that its economic ramifications be carefully examined. Furthermore, there is reason to be

concerned about personal autonomy and self-sufficiency, which is the basis of the dread of

becoming dependent on government assistance. It is important to understand, nevertheless, that

the ideals upheld by those who oppose universal basic income do not inevitably conflict with the

ones that support it. The promotion of individual autonomy and economic stability is a shared

goal among UBI proponents and opponents (Haagh). By recognizing this shared experience, we

may encourage positive communication and seek to develop solutions that consider the worries

of all parties involved. It's also important to remember that there are other factors at play in the

UBI argument besides economic ones. Fundamentally, universal basic income (UBI) is a

reassessment of society objectives and values, questioning long-held beliefs about personal

accountability and meritocracy. Therefore, to effectively engage the opposition, one must not

just address pragmatic issues but also engage in deeper philosophical discussions on the nature of

employment, welfare, and human dignity.

The Case for UBI: Embracing Opportunity

the traditional boundaries of economic theory. At its core, UBI represents a bold assertion of

human dignity and social justice, offering a pathway towards a more equitable and inclusive

society. By guaranteeing every individual a basic level of income, regardless of their

employment status or socioeconomic background, UBI empowers individuals to pursue

opportunities for personal and professional growth without the fear of financial insecurity. The

ability of universal basic income (UBI) to offer a strong safety net for those navigating the

uncertainty of the contemporary economy is one of its main advantages. Traditional employment

arrangements are becoming more unstable in an era of fast technological advancement and

globalization, making many people more susceptible to shocks and upheavals in the economy.

To prevent anyone from slipping through the cracks of a harsh system, UBI provides a lifeline to

people struggling with underemployment or job loss (Haagh). Additionally, universal basic

income (UBI) stimulates innovation and economic vitality. UBI unleashes a surge of creativity

and entrepreneurship by giving people a steady source of income, allowing them to follow their

passions and make significant contributions to society. In addition, universal basic income

(UBI) has the power to upend ingrained ideas of meritocracy and personal accountability. UBI

offers a radical reframing of human value, supporting the intrinsic worth of every individual

independent of their economic accomplishments in a society where worth is frequently linked

with economic output. By distancing money from labor, universal basic income (UBI) asserts

that a person's value is based on their inherent humanity rather than their capacity to make a

profit. UBI critics frequently bring up issues with its cost and its work-disincentive

consequences. Empirical data, however, indicates that these worries are mostly baseless.

Research and experimental initiatives carried out globally have indicated that universal basic
income (UBI) has the potential to enhance economic engagement, entrepreneurship, and general

well-being. In addition, universal basic income (UBI) can simplify the current welfare systems

by cutting down on red tape and bureaucratic inefficiencies. UBI is essentially a daring vision for

the future, one in which everyone has access to economic stability as a fundamental right rather

than it being a privilege for a select few. Adopting UBI is a sign of our dedication to creating a

society that puts compassion, unity, and human flourishing first. At this pivotal point in history,

let us take advantage of the chance to steer the globe in the direction of greater justice and equity

for future generations.

Challenges and Opportunities: Implementing UBI

The introduction of Universal Basic Income (UBI) has many potential advantages, but

there are also several obstacles that need to be properly considered. A significant obstacle is

finding sufficient money for UBI initiatives. The magnitude of these endeavors necessitates

significant financial means, casting doubt on their viability given current fiscal limitations.

Furthermore, strong entrenched interests may oppose the wealth transfer required to finance UBI

systems, further complicating the political environment. On the other hand, novel finance

strategies like wealth taxes or carbon dividends present viable answers to this problem by

offering supplementary income streams to assist the implementation of the UBI. Some who

disagree contend that giving people a guaranteed income might make them less inclined to look

for work, acquire more education, or take advantage of business possibilities. UBI systems must

be complemented with extensive support networks, such as access to childcare, education, and

training, to allay these worries. UBI can promote social mobility and economic empowerment by

enabling people to pursue their goals while guaranteeing a minimal degree of financial stability.
In conclusion, while putting UBI into practice comes with a lot of difficulties, there are also a lot

of amazing chances to improve our society. Universal Basic Income (UBI) has the potential to

usher in a new era of shared prosperity and human flourishing by eliminating economic injustice,

encouraging social inclusion, and nurturing individual autonomy. But achieving this goal will

need consistent dedication, creative problem-solving, and cross-sector cooperation. Let's take use

of this chance to create a more resilient, just, and equitable future for all as we move through the

challenges of implementing the UBI.

Works Cited

Ciaian, P., Ivanov, A., & Kancs, D. A. (2019). Universal basic income: A viable policy

alternative?. The World Economy, 42(10), 2975-3000.

Ghatak, Maitreesh, and François Maniquet. "Universal basic income: some theoretical aspects."

Annual Review of Economics 11 (2019): 895-928.

Wooldridge, Colin D., Andrew F. Johnson, and Katherine J. Roberto. "Something for Everyone?

Addressing Conservative Opposition to Universal Basic Income Programmes." Progress

in Development Studies 24.1 (2024): 68-76.