LSAT (Law School Admission Test)Reading ComprehensionMedium
Passage: "The concept of 'universal basic income' (UBI), a periodic cash payment unconditionally delivered to all citizens, has garnered significant attention as a potential solution to economic inequality and technological unemployment. Proponents argue that UBI could streamline welfare systems, reduce poverty, and provide a safety net for workers displaced by automation. They point to pilot programs in Finland and Canada that demonstrated positive impacts on health and well-being, without significantly reducing labor force participation. Critics, however, raise concerns about the immense cost, potential inflationary pressures, and the moral hazard of decoupling income from work. They also question the long-term effects on societal productivity and the willingness of individuals to engage in meaningful work if basic needs are guaranteed. The debate often involves differing assumptions about human motivation, the nature of work, and the role of the state in providing economic security." Which of the following is most likely to be a point of agreement between proponents and critics of UBI?
- AUBI would eliminate the need for all other existing social welfare programs.
- BThe implementation of UBI would represent a significant shift in economic policy.
- CPilot programs unequivocally demonstrate the long-term benefits of UBI for societal productivity.
- DUBI would inevitably lead to widespread inflation and a reduction in the labor force.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. The implementation of UBI would represent a significant shift in economic policy.
Both proponents and critics acknowledge the transformative nature of UBI. Proponents highlight its potential to 'streamline welfare systems' and address 'technological unemployment,' implying a major change. Critics express concerns about 'immense cost' and 'moral hazard,' which are significant policy implications. Therefore, both sides would agree that UBI represents a substantial shift.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Proponents suggest UBI could 'streamline' welfare, not necessarily eliminate all other programs. Critics would likely disagree even more strongly.
- C. This is a point of contention; proponents cite positive impacts, but critics 'question the long-term effects on societal productivity.'
- D. These are specific concerns raised by critics, which proponents would dispute, not agree upon.
Identifying Agreement
Locating common ground or shared assumptions between differing viewpoints presented in a passage.
- Look for statements that are presented as factual or as shared premises, even if conclusions differ.
- Avoid options that reflect a specific claim or concern of only one side.
- Focus on broad implications or the nature of the issue itself, rather than specific outcomes.
Memory trick: Shared Facts Unite, Despite Divergent Views.