America’s AI boom is a jobs opportunity, not an excuse for universal basic income
The article argues that fears about artificial intelligence eliminating jobs should not be used to justify universal basic income. Its author contends that government payments could discourage work and undermine the dignity and social value attached to employment, particularly for people in practical and industrial occupations.
Framed as an opinion piece, it advocates preparing Americans for AI-driven change through employment, training and new opportunities rather than income support without work requirements. The author draws on a personal family connection to trade-union labour to argue that workers who build, transport and power the country should remain central to the economy.
- The author opposes universal basic income as an AI response.
- It calls for jobs and training instead.
- The piece emphasises work’s dignity and economic role.
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Artificial intelligence, or AI, refers to computer systems that can perform tasks such as analysing information or producing text and images. As businesses adopt these systems, some jobs may change or disappear, while new kinds of work may emerge.
Universal basic income is a proposal to give people regular payments from the government, usually without requiring them to work. The debate over AI and jobs raises questions about how to support people through economic change and whether policy should prioritise income payments, employment, training or a mix of these.
Workers in practical and industrial roles help build, transport and power goods and services. How AI affects these jobs, and what opportunities and support are available to workers, could shape employment and economic policy in the United States.
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The case for
Supporters of UBI argue that AI-driven automation will displace workers faster than new jobs emerge, particularly in middle-skilled sectors where retraining programmes have historically shown mixed results. They contend that unconditional income support provides essential security and dignity during economic transitions, allowing people to meet basic needs whilst seeking new opportunities, and that economic stability itself is empowering rather than dependency-inducing. From this view, pragmatic preparation for technological disruption means ensuring people aren't pushed into destitution during labour market reshaping.
The case against
Advocates for this position argue that human flourishing comes fundamentally from meaningful work and contribution to society, not merely from income transfers. They contend that government payments without work incentives could reduce labour force participation and weaken the connection between effort and reward that underpins both individual dignity and social cohesion. From this perspective, the ethical response to technological change is robust investment in education, training, and job creation that keeps workers central to the economy rather than sidelined by unconditional support.
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