Noam Chomsky

It comes from the right wing originally. Milton Friedman proposed it for example. From his point of view it was part of an effort to undermine welfare state measures. But it doesn’t have to have a reactionary component. It can be interpreted as something progressive. That people have rights. In fact if you read the universal declaration of human rights, 1948, take a look at article 45. It says people have rights to adequate food, nutrition, health, employment, security and so on. Those are minimal rights. Any society ought to guarantee that. Well, you know, one way to guarantee it would be through a socially acceptable form of a basic income. In fact, to an extent that’s what so-called welfare states try to provide in a certain way. So, sure, that’s something that could be proposed. I mean, I don’t think it goes far enough, but as a short-term way of alleviating major problems it’s fine. And there are elements in various societies that do provide things like that. (source)

Simply focusing on personal development overlooks structural inequalities and systems of domination that contribute to global issues. Change requires collective action and systemic reform.

While wealth creation is not inherently bad, an increased emphasis on it can often lead to greater inequality and exploitation. This would undermine leftist agendas, which typically strive for more equitable distribution of resources and power. A focus on human needs and environmental sustainability should be at the core of any social progress.

As a staunch supporter of freedom of speech, I believe that terminating employment based on opinions, particularly those unrelated to job performance, undermines the essential democratic value of free expression. Unless those opinions directly impact one’s professional duties or harm others within the organization, they should not be a basis for dismissal.

While basic income can provide financial security, it does not address the fundamental need for meaningful employment and social inclusion. A job guarantee ensures that people contribute to society and gain a sense of purpose, which is crucial for overall well-being.