Overview
Some people argue that a guaranteed basic income is simply a more effective and efficient safety net than what we have now. Others say it fundamentally redefines the role of government and people’s obligations to themselves and their families. But what is the role of government? And what role do incentives play—incentives to work or to not work. (Like to see two sides presented to encourage critical thinking and great classroom? Check out our Both Sides feature on SITC.org.) Pair with: Basic Income: Pros and Cons is a good standalone lesson, but it pairs well with Why Politicians Don’t Cut Spending, which is on our 2018 DVD and streamed on SITC.org.

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Grade level and subjects
• Recommended for grades 6-12
• Subjects: Economics and Personal Finance
• Works in Classroom, Hybrid, and Homeschool settings

Sample discussion questions
• What is a Basic Income, as discussed in the video?
• Have students complete the Basic Income: Pros and Cons worksheet.
• A Basic Income program will protect people from unemployment once automation eliminates many low-paid jobs. Agree / Disagree / Unsure
• Many people will stop working and live a poorer quality of life. Agree / Disagree / Unsure
• Those who continue to work will have to pay higher taxes. Agree / Disagree / Unsure

What’s in the free teacher’s guide
This printable 3-page Teacher's Guide includes a lesson description and discussion and analysis questions.

Standards alignment
Aligned to state standards — use the SITC Standards Tool to match this video to the standards in your state.