Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has funded the largest basic income research project in the United States to date through his nonprofit organization, OpenResearch. This study aimed to assist individuals living below the poverty line by providing them with unconditional cash payments over a three-year period.
The research involved approximately 3,000 participants aged 21 to 40 from Texas and Illinois, all earning less than $30,000 annually. One-third of these individuals received $1,000 per month, while the remaining participants, who formed the control group, were provided with $50 monthly.
The findings indicated that those receiving the larger cash payments experienced greater flexibility in job searching, allowing them to pursue employment that aligned with their preferences. The authors of the study noted that cash payments can enhance a person’s ability to make employment choices consistent with their personal situations, objectives, and values. Participants reported being more selective in their job search.
One participant expressed gratitude for the cash transfers and their ability to save, stating that they felt empowered to be picky about job opportunities, whereas before, they felt pressured to accept any job for immediate income. Another recipient shared that by accepting a lower-paying entry-level position in their desired field, they eventually achieved a six-figure salary, attributing their success to the financial support from cash transfers.
Overall, the study did not reveal significant differences in employment rates between recipients of the larger payments and the control group. However, it showed that recipients predominantly increased their spending on essential needs like food, housing, and transportation. Additionally, the cash helped address health-related expenses, such as braces and alcohol treatment. Although the payments initially alleviated stress, many of the health-related benefits diminished after two years.
Sam Altman advocates for universal basic income, particularly as advancements in artificial intelligence continue to transform the job market and displace certain occupations.
Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly stated that the study was conducted by OpenAI; it was actually carried out by Altman’s nonprofit, OpenResearch.