Mortality, existential risk, and universal basic income

Abstract

This article argues that alleviating poverty can save lives in the short and long term, and that universal basic income (UBI) is an effective anti-poverty policy. It discusses how poverty reduction can reduce both mortality and existential risks, which are defined as risks that threaten the continued existence of humanity. In particular, the article discusses how poverty reduction can help address three existential risks: climate change, pandemics, and unaligned artificial intelligence. It examines the relationship between poverty and patience, trust, and global cooperation, arguing that reducing poverty could engender greater support for the international cooperation needed to fight existential risks. Furthermore, it analyzes the effectiveness of UBI compared to existing anti-poverty programs, considering arguments regarding cash versus in-kind benefits and universality versus targeting. Finally, it explores the costs of redistributional policy, suggesting that shifting resources to the poor will likely improve outcomes on a net basis. – AI-generated abstract.