Finland is doing a trial of basic income. Given that welfare is more expensive than just handing over money, it’ll be interesting to see how this works.
“Some people might stay on their couches, and some might go to work,” she says. “We don’t know yet.”
I suspect this is exactly what will happen. I was going to say it will set the minimum wage, but why would it, if it really is basic income, you’d get it no matter what. And maybe some people wouldn’t get off the couch unless they get more than the government is giving them, but picking up a part-time, minimum wage job would just be more money in their pocket so why not take that job.
Not So Fast 