Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has spearheaded a groundbreaking initiative by funding the largest basic income study in the United States through his nonprofit organization, OpenResearch. This innovative project aimed to provide support for individuals living below the poverty line through unconditional cash payments over a span of three years.
The study involved 3,000 participants aged 21 to 40 from Texas and Illinois, all of whom had annual incomes below $30,000. Among them, one-third received monthly payments of $1,000, while the remainder was given $50 as a control group.
Findings from the study revealed that those receiving larger cash payments experienced increased flexibility in job searching, allowing them to pursue positions aligned with their preferences and career goals. The authors of the study noted that financial support can enhance individuals’ ability to choose employment that resonates with their personal circumstances and aspirations.
Participants expressed their gratitude and the positive impact of cash transfers on their lives. One recipient shared that the financial assistance enabled them to save and be selective about job choices, saying, “I don’t have to take a crappy job just because I need income right now. I have the opportunity to hold out and try and find the right fit.”
Another participant took a lower-paying entry-level position in a desired field, which ultimately led to a six-figure salary within two years, crediting the cash support for making that transition possible.
While the study indicated no significant differences in overall employment rates between recipients and the control group, it was noted that the additional payments primarily contributed towards basic needs such as food, housing, and transportation. Some recipients also found that financial support helped address health issues, which, while initially reducing stress, lost some of its benefits over time.
Altman has been an advocate for universal basic income, particularly as advancements in artificial intelligence continue to reshape the job market and raise concerns about job displacement.
In a correction, it was clarified that the research was conducted by OpenResearch, not OpenAI.
This initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing poverty and employment challenges, highlighting the potential of basic income to empower individuals. As society navigates the evolving landscape of work driven by technology, exploring innovative solutions like this could pave the way for a more equitable future.