Here’s What Happens When You Give People Free Money
WiredJUL 2024
Altman Releases US' Largest Basic Income Study's Findings
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Above: Sam Altman speaks onstage during A Year In TIME at The Plaza Hotel on Dec. 12, 2023 in New York City. Image copyright: Mike Coppola/Staff/Getty Images Entertainment via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The Sam Altman-backed study explored how AI-induced job losses might necessitate universal basic income. It highlighted that cash provides flexibility and reduces stress. Despite mixed results, the need for universal basic income as an effective anti-poverty tool is evident, independent of AI advancements.
Narrative B
This study shows that giving $1K monthly to poor Americans didn't improve their long-term financial health and could potentially increase their dependence on financial assistance. So, while cash grants help meet immediate needs, they aren't a comprehensive solution for job loss due to AI.
Metaculus Prediction
There's a 5% chance that the US, UK, China, or any of the countries in the EU will enact a universal basic income before 2030, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
