The idea of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) has been an American idea since the foundation of the nation- as it was introduced by Thomas Paine, American political activist and Founding Father. UBI as a way of fighting poverty in the United States was first made a major topic of discussion at the American dinner table in 1970 by President Nixon (and economist Milton Friedman) when the Family Security Plan was introduced. Although this plan was never approved by Congress, it placed a more dramatic emphasis on the anti-work, anti-family pressures of the welfare policy and put income guarantees on the political agenda which jumpstarted our first national cash-income guarantee -- Supplemental Security Income. Today, in 2018, we are seeing many advancements …show more content…
With the idea of a Universal Basic Income on the table- I feel that it is important for the nation to understand what UBI is and how it will help create financial stability in the nation with the upcoming …show more content…
Many people are concerned that people will abuse this “free” money and attempt to live off of their new, free income. However, it is important to note that the current welfare system is not without abuse. There are many people taking advantage (and maybe even abusing) programs such as HUD’s public housing program, Medicaid, and SNAP. It is also important to recognize that most of the people, like single-parents, utilizing these programs are actually in need and that there is also population of people who display a need and do not qualify for aid under the standards set by the agencies that distribute this type of aid, that would more greatly benefit from UBI- but that topic will be spoken upon