Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has initiated the largest basic income study in the United States to date, through his nonprofit, OpenResearch. This groundbreaking research project provided unconditional cash payments over three years to individuals living below the poverty line.
The study involved around 3,000 participants from Texas and Illinois, aged between 21 and 40, all earning less than $30,000 annually. One-third of these individuals received $1,000 monthly, termed as recipients, while the remaining participants served as a control group, receiving only $50.
Findings from the study revealed that participants receiving the higher payments enjoyed greater flexibility in their job search, allowing them to pursue positions that aligned more closely with their personal goals and aspirations. The research indicated that cash payments increased individuals’ ability to make employment decisions that reflected their circumstances and values.
One participant highlighted how the cash transfers enabled them to build savings, allowing for a more discerning approach in their job search. “I don’t have to take a job just because I need income right now. I have the opportunity to hold out and try and find the right fit,” they mentioned. Another recipient shared their experience of accepting a lower-paid entry-level position in a desired field; within two years, they achieved a six-figure salary—a path they would not have considered without the financial support.
Importantly, the study did not uncover significant differences in overall employment levels when comparing those who received the larger payments to the control group. However, it did observe that recipients primarily used the funds for essential needs such as food, housing, and transportation. Additionally, the payments provided support for health-related expenses. While the initial cash transfers alleviated stress, the study noted that the health benefits appeared to diminish after two years.
Sam Altman has long championed the idea of universal basic income (UBI) as a potential solution in response to the changes brought about by automation and artificial intelligence, which threaten to disrupt traditional employment landscapes.
This study exemplifies how UBI initiatives could empower individuals, enhancing their flexibility in the job market and enabling them to aspire for roles that better suit their skills and passions. It highlights a positive shift in how financial support can lead to improved employment outcomes, aligning job opportunities with personal fulfillment as we navigate an evolving economic framework.
The commitment to exploring innovative solutions, like basic income, reveals a hopeful vision for the future, where individuals are better equipped to thrive in a changing job market influenced by technological advancements.