“People Nowadays Will Take Everything They Can Get”: American Perceptions of Basic Income Usage

Universal basic income (UBI) is a centuries-old policy proposal in which every citizen granted regular cash payment to provide security. One defining concept of UBI that it unconditional, unlike most modern social welfare programs. While decades pilot data suggest be superior traditional means tested assistance, public support divided and heavily based on stereotypes dependency negative consumption effects. A mixed-method research design was utilized explore the projected behavioral response current former recipients regard themselves others. Responses indicate majority participants would not alter their work arrangements rather plan for future financial stability while assuming other Americans quit working spend money irresponsibly. These results even among recipients, neoliberal conservative narratives irrationality persist.