The Covid-19 crisis generates gaze at the economical market in ways that only a crisis can allow. The slow market movements enable us to review and rethink its current dynamics and the voices, seeking for reforms in the economy, are increasing. While many states are paying grants and subsidies to their tax-payers, we are closer to what we can call UBI. Universal basic income seems to be the most reasonable next step.
The implication of such a system was tested by many states over the past decades. And yes, the main beneficiaries of UBI were the children. Children, but also adults improved their education and diet. Many more people turned to more medical care. The number of hospital admissions has decreased, and the need for emergency psychiatry has also diminished. Domestic violence cases have declined, and the crime rate has dropped. Alcohol consumption declined. Also, women’s living conditions improved, more women attended school, and more women became economically active and started small businesses. To me it sounds like a very good Anti-Covid-19.
One main anxiety attached to UBI discussion is the concern of a decrease in workers rate. Researches had proved that the duty to work is connected to the moral obligation of the individual towards society and not towards economic stability. As well, it was found that UBI had significant positive effects on the experimental group: they felt more satisfied, expressed more confidence in other citizens, the judiciary and politicians, they felt more confident – especially financially – and expressed optimism about the future. And as people born to rich families enjoy an effortless cash flow are not questioned of their working morals. Why distributing money to the less fortunate without any condition should be less legitimate?
Sheri Avraham ist Vorsitzende der IG Bildende Kunst