Universal basic income
Should everyone get a basic income?
A universal basic income is a regular payment to every adult, with no work test and no means test. Supporters see it as a simple, dignified safety net that ends poverty traps, supports caring and creative work, and prepares for a future where jobs are less secure. Critics say it is expensive, may reduce the incentive to work, and that money would do more good targeted at those in need. A related idea is a guaranteed job for anyone who wants to work.
On the 12 Axes this issue moves the welfare axis. Both a universal payment and a job guarantee point toward the Shared pole, because they commit the state to securing everyone's livelihood. Opposition points toward the Self-reliant pole. The issue cuts across left and right in a notable way. Some free-market thinkers like a basic income because it could replace a tangle of benefits with one simple payment and leave people free to choose how to spend it. Some on the left oppose it, preferring jobs, public services or unions, and worry that a flat payment could be used to cut other forms of support.
What each side argues
Guarantee a basic income
- Supporters argue that a payment to everyone removes the stigma and complexity of means-tested benefits.
- Supporters say a basic floor lets people take risks, retrain, start businesses or care for family.
- Supporters of a job guarantee say work gives people purpose and income, and the state should offer it when the market does not.
Targeted support
- Opponents argue that paying everyone is very expensive, and that the money would be better aimed at those who need it most.
- Opponents worry that unconditional payments reduce the incentive to work and weaken the link between effort and reward.
- Opponents of a job guarantee say government-created jobs can be costly and low in value.
2 statements on universal basic income
- Every adult should receive a basic income from the government, whether or not they work.Agreeing moves you toward Shared
- The government should guarantee a job to anyone who wants to work.Agreeing moves you toward Shared
What politicians have said and done
Avi LewisBacks higher income supports and a framework, set nationally, for a livable guaranteed basic income.Source: lewisisleader.ca
At each end of Welfare
People whose overall profile leans furthest each way on the axis this issue moves most. A lean on the axis is not a stance on this exact issue.
More welfare issues
Universal basic income: questions
What is universal basic income?
Universal basic income is a regular cash payment given to every adult, whatever their income or employment status. It does not depend on looking for work. Supporters see it as a simple safety net. Critics worry about the cost and about its effect on work.
Would a basic income make people stop working?
Evidence from trials is mixed and depends on the design. Many people keep working, and some use the security to train or change jobs. Critics argue that a larger, permanent payment might reduce work more than short experiments suggest. The size of the payment matters a great deal.
Is universal basic income left or right wing?
It attracts support from both. Some on the left like the security it offers. Some free-market thinkers like that it simplifies the welfare state and respects personal choice. Opponents on both sides prefer jobs or targeted help. On the 12 Axes it moves the welfare axis.