Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has funded a groundbreaking study on basic income, marking the largest of its kind in the United States. This initiative, led by his nonprofit organization OpenResearch, explored the impact of unconditional cash payments on individuals living below the poverty line over a three-year period.
The study involved 3,000 participants aged between 21 and 40 from Texas and Illinois, all earning less than $30,000 annually. One-third of these participants received $1,000 per month, while a control group received only $50.
Findings revealed that those who received the larger monthly payments experienced greater flexibility in their job search, enabling them to pursue employment opportunities that better suited their goals and values. The researchers noted, “Cash can increase people’s agency to make employment decisions that align with their individual circumstances, goals, and values.” Recipients were not only more engaged in job hunting but also showed a tendency to be more selective in their choices.
One participant shared how the financial support allowed them to prioritize quality over necessity, stating, “Because of the cash transfer and being able to build up my savings, I’m in a position for once to be picky.” Another recipient reported that the assistance enabled them to accept a lower-paying job in their desired field, ultimately leading them to a six-figure salary within two years—a feat they claim would not have been possible without the financial cushion.
Interestingly, the study indicated no significant difference in overall employment levels between the recipients and the control group. Instead, the cash transfers primarily shifted their spending toward essential needs such as food, housing, and transportation. Moreover, these payments provided critical support for various health-related expenses, although the long-lasting stress relief they initially afforded began to diminish over time.
Altman, a passionate advocate for universal basic income amid an evolving job market influenced by AI technology, continues to push for initiatives that could reshape economic support structures for those in need.
This study offers a hopeful perspective on how financial assistance can empower individuals to make more thoughtful career choices, potentially leading to enhanced job satisfaction and economic mobility. As discussions around universal basic income gain traction, this research could play a pivotal role in shaping future policies.