The influence of automation in support for Universal Basic Income

Abstract

Technology is advancing at unprecedent rates and Automation and AI have the potential toexpand the economy beyond human production, as such, Universal Basic Income (UBI) arisesas a political measure to mitigate the effects of that scenario. Nonetheless, opinions towardsUBI are divergent and may be influenced by different socioeconomic and phychologial factors.This dissertation explores the influence that the introduction of a future automated society hason individual’s support for UBI. Additionally, this study investigates the role of specific beliefs(Meaningfulness of Work and Meritocracy) as well as of Job Automation Risk as moderatorsin that relationship. Results show that the introduction of a future automated scenario positivelyinfluences participant’s opinions towards UBI. Results also reveal that the more individualsbelieve in Meaningfulness of Work, the less they are prone to support UBI. Finally, the studyfound no evidence of moderation by Meritocracy and Job Automation risk in the relationshipbetween the introduction of a future automated society and support for UBI.

Date of Award	11 May 2023
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Filipa de Almeida (Supervisor)