Few days ago I had a late night conversation with my friends about Basic Income. As usual most my arguments in support of Basic Income were met with skepticism. Nothing new here, but made me think again why is it so hard to reason with people the need for and the benefits of a Basic Income.



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The arguments that I typically resort to revolve around rapid growth of unemployment rates driven by automation and the need for poverty reduction, and maybe a handful of others. These don't seem to convince many people, but sometimes let people entertain the possibility of a Basic Income. In addition, I myself, often feel like something is missing. I feel like there is more to the concept of Basic Income.



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As a relative newbie to the subject, I often discover new concepts and enjoy new perspectives on the topic. For example, I recently learned that Universal Basic Income, despite being Universal, would probably have a direct and positive effect on local economies.



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Today after reading a few inspirational tweets (BTW started following @Women4UBI) and reading some inspirational articles on the topic of Basic Income, I feel like I've expanded my arsenal of arguments with a number of refreshing thoughts.

First, things that I frequent as arguments for a Basic Income seem more like possible positive by-products of it.



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Second, an adoption of a Basic Income style of financial support for every individual has to be driven by moral necessities for human equality, individual freedom, and should be a driver for empathy and altruism. In addition, it should be a tool for enabling creativity and entrepreneurship by allowing the recipients of Basic Income to take more risks.



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Final thought I probably came across was in a comment of an article or it might've been inspired by a tweet. Building on the above argument for empathy and altruism, as well as a possible need to have semi-controlled roll out and usage of a Basic Income, we could potentially adopt an opt-in system for the Basic Income. People would have to opt-in and renew, on say an annual basis, to continue receiving the benefits. The payments may also be backdated up to 1-2 month to avoid interruptions.



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And a cherry on top:

"We live in the world where success is defined by income." - Elizabeth White



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