Robots are coming
In "The War on Normal People," politician and author Andrew Yang offers a thought-provoking exploration of the challenges posed by automation and AI, along with a bold proposal for a Universal Basic Income (Yang calls it the Freedom Dividend) to mitigate the negative impacts of these technological advancements. The book highlights the urgency of addressing these issues and fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for all Americans.
Throughout the book, Yang draws on real-life examples and personal experiences from his 2020 presidential campaign to illustrate the human toll of job displacement and economic dislocation. He discusses the need for a more compassionate and forward-thinking approach to economic policy that prioritizes the well-being of ordinary citizens.
Plausible futures
In envisioning the potential outcomes of Universal Basic Income (UBI) in the year 2030, let's explore four distinct quadrants defined by two axes: the people axis, ranging from community-oriented to singularly focused individuals, and the technology axis, ranging from AI for all to AI for a limited intellectual class.
Quadrant 1: Community-Oriented & AI for All
In this quadrant, UBI has successfully fostered community and solidarity among citizens. With AI technologies accessible to all, individuals collaborate to address societal challenges and collectively advance the common good. Poverty rates plummet as UBI ensures every citizen has the means to meet their basic needs, leading to thriving communities and equitable distribution of resources. Social cohesion strengthens, with citizens working together to build a more inclusive and sustainable society.
Quadrant 2: Community-Oriented & AI for a Limited Intellectual Class
UBI promotes community-driven initiatives and social cohesion here, but AI technologies remain accessible only to a select intellectual class. While poverty rates decrease due to UBI, disparities persist as access to advanced technologies creates a divide between the intellectual elite and the rest of society. However, community-based efforts mitigate some of these inequalities, with citizens collaborating to address local challenges and uplift marginalized communities. Social cohesion remains strong, driven by a shared purpose and collective responsibility.
Quadrant 3: Singularly Focused & AI for All
In this quadrant, individuals prioritize their personal goals and aspirations, with AI technologies widely accessible to all. UBI provides financial security, allowing individuals to pursue their passions and interests without financial constraints. Innovation flourishes as citizens harness AI technologies to pursue entrepreneurial endeavors and creative projects. However, focusing on individual pursuits may lead to weakening social bonds and a lack of collective action to address systemic issues. While poverty rates decline, social cohesion may suffer as communities become more fragmented.
Quadrant 4: Singularly Focused & AI for a Limited Intellectual Class
In this scenario, individuals singularly focus on personal advancement, with AI technologies accessible only to a limited intellectual class. UBI provides financial stability for some, but disparities widen as access to advanced technologies deepens existing inequalities. Innovation is concentrated among the intellectual elite, exacerbating socioeconomic divisions. Social cohesion weakens as communities become increasingly stratified, with little collaboration or collective action to address systemic challenges. Poverty rates may decrease for some, but social disparities and tensions rise as societal divisions deepen.
Complex interactions between societal values, technological advancements, and economic structures shape the future of Universal Basic Income in 2030. Reality will likely be a mix of plausible futures, but, Bitches, I fear the last scenario the most.
As we head towards the presidential elections in November, which scenario do you think aligns with each candidate?