Universal basic income (UBI) is a policy proposal that would provide a regular, unconditional cash payment to all members of a society. While UBI has been advocated by some as a way to address the challenges posed by automation and the changing nature of work, it is currently not feasible to implement on a widespread basis in most countries. There are a number of logistical and financial challenges that would need to be overcome in order to implement UBI in a way that is sustainable and equitable.
However, despite the current challenges to implementing UBI, it is becoming increasingly clear that it will be critical in the coming years to find ways to support individuals and communities as the economy and job market continue to evolve. With this in mind, governments should consider advocating for and supporting initiatives that aim to establish and strengthen small, ethical artisan businesses (SEABs) and farms (SEAFs) in their communities.
These types of businesses can provide job opportunities and support local economies, and can also help to strengthen the food supply and promote self-sufficiency. Adding “gigs” or short-term, project-based work to support SEABs and SEAFs can also help to create more flexible and diverse sources of income for individuals.
In addition, governments can consider supporting the development of interoperable small scale residential energy production systems, which could help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase the self-sufficiency of communities. Gamification and the use of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) to govern communities can also be explored as potential ways to engage citizens and encourage participation in local economic development.
While UBI remains currently impossible, there are steps that governments and communities can take to create more resilient and sustainable local economies that can provide income and support for citizens in the coming years.
In summary, universal basic income (UBI) may be a desirable policy for addressing the challenges posed by automation and the changing nature of work, but it is currently not feasible to implement on a widespread basis. However, there are other strategies that governments and communities can consider to create more resilient and sustainable local economies that can provide income and support for citizens in the coming years.
One such strategy is the establishment and support of small, ethical artisan businesses (SEABs) and farms (SEAFs). These types of businesses can provide job opportunities and support local economies, and can also help to strengthen the food supply and promote self-sufficiency. Adding “gigs” or short-term, project-based work to support SEABs and SEAFs can also create more flexible and diverse sources of income for individuals.
In addition, governments can consider supporting the development of interoperable small scale residential energy production systems, which can help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase the self-sufficiency of communities. Gamification and the use of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) to govern communities can also be explored as potential ways to engage citizens and encourage participation in local economic development.
Overall, while UBI may not be currently possible, there are steps that governments and communities can take to create more resilient and sustainable local economies that can provide income and support for citizens.