Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

Another reason, I think, is a general belief that human nature is mostly good and if given a chance most people will do what's right with the money.

There would be problems sure, but I would say use that money (that would've been spent at the front of the pipeline) and find the problems in an audit process at the backend of the pipeline. Don't withhold money because people are irresponsible. Use part of the funds to audit, and then also to "recuperate / rehabilitate" those who have problems. I can't say for certain, but I've read many stories that lead me to believe that it's more expensive for a state to withhold basic things like food and shelter than it is to simply give it to them.

When all is said and done, those who turn out to be problems and never figure out how to turn their lives around, even after given every chance to fix their lives and become productive members of society, simply end up dying knowing they lived an unproductive life. I think in the modern world that will turn out to be enough of a penalty / incentive.

EDIT: I think we can all agree those who turn out to be problems, even with Basic or Minimum Guaranteed Income, will show up on the radar. Won't be hard. They'll be in prison, regularly in hospital overdosed on drugs, etc. So I doubt the backend audit would be more than a fraction of putting that cost at the front.



Consider applying for YC's Winter 2026 batch! Applications are open till Nov 10

Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: