The Inevitability of UBI: A Capitalist Perspective
Is Universal Basic Income (UBI) inevitable in a capitalist system? As more jobs are automated, this question gains urgency. Automation, which can be seen as both a threat and an opportunity, necessitates a reevaluation of our economic system. This essay explores the challenges faced by the capitalist system due to automation and how UBI might be the solution to maintain the cycle of perpetual profit.
Embracing Automation: The Positive and Negative Aspects
Robots and computers, while efficient and cost-effective, are not perfect consumers. They work for free but do not buy anything. In a capitalist system, consumption is a critical function, as human beings require certain commodities for survival. These commodities must be purchased with currency, and to obtain currency, humans must work and produce goods. This cycle has been out of balance for many decades, exacerbated by the rise of automation.
Corporate owners, who benefit from the current system, have employed various methods to keep consumption levels high. Initially, they introduced credit to allow people to buy now and pay later. As machines required fewer workers, corporations gave everyone credit cards to ensure they continued buying. At the same time, the government, which is also owned by these corporations, provided a small amount of welfare to a few individuals while vilifying the welfare recipients. This aimed to shift the blame from the system to the powerless, who struggle to find employment due to job losses caused by automation.
Automation and the Capitalist System
Automation, when implemented in a capitalist profit-driven system, is problematic. It is counterintuitive, and the wealthy know this, but they continue to support the system because it benefits them. If we choose to continue this capitalist system, we will inevitably have to provide people with money through UBI to ensure the perpetual profit cycle for the elite.
The result will be a permanent small elite class that controls all means of production, machines, and resources, alongside a permanent large class of peasants who barely survive. We are already witnessing a shift towards catering to a wealthier and poorer classes; retailers serving the middle class are going bankrupt, while stores like Walmart and Dollar General thrive. This trend will likely intensify in the coming decades as corporations adapt their business plans to target either the rich or the poor.
Exploring Alternatives: Overthrowing Capitalism
However, if we recognize the flaws of the current system, we can explore alternatives. By overthrowing capitalism, we could gradually eliminate currency and private ownership. Instead, we could implement a system of joint stewardship of Earth's resources, using these resources and machines to provide everyone with a dignified existence. This approach aims to create a more equitable society, where resources and opportunities are shared more freely.
The Pros and Cons of UBI
While UBI could stabilize the economic system in a capitalist context, it's important to consider the pros and cons. On one hand, UBI can alleviate poverty and inequality, providing a basic income to everyone. On the other hand, it may stifle innovation and drive worker productivity, as people may rely more on the guaranteed income. Critics argue that UBI could discourage people from working, but proponents counter that it can enable people to pursue creative and fulfilling work while still having a basic safety net.
Conclusion: The Future of UBI in a Capitalist World
The inevitability of UBI in a capitalist system is undeniably high, given the increasing automation and the need to maintain a cycle of consumption for profit. However, this does not mean that it is the only solution. By reevaluating our economic systems and prioritizing equity and sustainability, we can explore alternative models that may better serve humanity and the planet.