2026年3月托福机经套卷(第4套) - Read an Academic Passage Q5

Universal Basic Income Debate The concept of universal basic income (UBI) is gaining attention worldwide. UBI provides all citizens with a regular, unconditional sum of money. Proponents argue that UBI can reduce poverty, streamline welfare, and offer a safety net in an era of automation and job loss. In Finland, a two-year pilot program gave 2,000 unemployed citizens a monthly payment. The results showed improved mental well-being and a modest increase in employment, but the findings were not definitive. Similarly, an experiment in Ontario, Canada, showed promising social benefits but was cut short due to cost concerns. Critics raise several concerns. One major argument against UBI is its cost. Implementing it could require significant tax increases or reallocating government resources, straining public finances. There are also concerns about the impact on labor markets. Opponents suggest that a guaranteed income might disincentivize work, leading to reduced productivity and economic stagnation. The relationship between UBI and inflation is another common concern. While most pilot programs have not reported noticeable inflation in local prices, the programs are limited in scale and have not injected enough money into economies to significantly affect prices. Some economists note that certain sectors, like housing or groceries, could see localized price increases due to increased demand.