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RE: Finland Launches Its Universal Basic Income Experiment
I don't think this is going to work. Much like the failed experiment in Sweden in regards to the 6-hour work day the costs outweigh the benefits.
Also keep in mind one very important fact. Throughout history technology has never reduced employment rates. It has exponentially increased them.
During the 1950's people who had horses and were employed by the millions worried that the steam engine will spread havoc in the economy. The ol' "they took er jobs" was as ridiculous then as it is today.
Much like nobody could envision back then that there would be a job title like "Social Media Manager", similarly we can't envision today what jobs this mass automation will bring.
It's true that new jobs that we haven't envisioned yet will be created in the future and it will create opportunities for a lot of people.
But it is also wise to keep all options open and be prepared for any scenarios. So, in my opinion, this experiment by Finland is a necessary step. If it fails, it won't be for a lack of trying.
Whether it fails or succeeds it will mean nothing since it is a localized experiment with a very small sample based on a specific culture in a specific point in time.
For the record, giving people free stuff never worked in the long run. it makes people lazy and entitled.
You make some good points. We will have to wait and see how everything unfolds.
I do think mass automation will reduce jobs, it will also make a lot of people redundant especially in third world countries, and that's what worries me.
It is true. It poses a grave threat!