Basic Income: And How We Can Make It Happen

Basic Income: And How We Can Make It Happen examines the concept of universal basic income (UBI) as a potential solution to economic inequality and technological disruption. Standing presents the historical context of basic income proposals and outlines various implementation approaches that have been tested or proposed globally. The book analyzes the primary arguments for and against basic income, addressing common criticisms and misconceptions about its feasibility and effects. Through examination of pilot programs and case studies, Standing explores the practical considerations of implementing UBI at national and regional levels. Standing investigates the financing mechanisms that could support basic income programs and discusses the potential impacts on labor markets, social services, and economic stability. The text includes detailed policy frameworks and transition strategies for moving from current welfare systems to UBI. This work serves as both a comprehensive policy guide and a broader commentary on the changing nature of work, citizenship, and social justice in modern economies. The exploration of basic income connects to fundamental questions about human dignity, economic security, and the social contract between citizens and the state.

Readers describe this book as a comprehensive introduction to universal basic income (UBI) that breaks down complex economic concepts into understandable terms. Positives from reviews: - Clear explanations of UBI implementation options and funding mechanisms - Strong evidence and data to support arguments - Balanced examination of both benefits and challenges - Practical focus on policy details rather than just theory Criticisms from reviews: - Some sections get repetitive - Too much focus on UK-specific examples - Could better address counter-arguments against UBI - Technical language in later chapters can be dense Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (187 ratings) Amazon: 4.3/5 (126 ratings) One reader noted: "Standing makes UBI digestible for newcomers while still offering depth for those familiar with the concept." Another criticized: "The author sometimes assumes too much background knowledge of economic terminology."

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🌟 Guy Standing co-founded BIEN (Basic Income Earth Network) in 1986, which became the world's leading organization for basic income research and advocacy. 🌟 The book explores historical experiments with basic income, including the successful Alaska Permanent Fund which has paid dividends to residents since 1982. 🌟 Standing coined the term "precariat" to describe a growing social class of people living with economic insecurity, which he argues makes basic income increasingly necessary. 🌟 The author served as a professor at SOAS University of London and worked for the International Labour Organization (ILO) for 30 years, giving him unique insights into global labor markets. 🌟 The book discusses how automation and artificial intelligence could eliminate up to 47% of existing jobs in the coming decades, making basic income a potential solution for technological unemployment.