Automation

Elon Musk says Universal Basic Income is “going to be necessary.”

January 22, 2025
Elon Musk speaking at World Government Summit with futuristic robots and universal basic income concept

Key insights:

  • Automation will make most current jobs obsolete, including manufacturing, transportation, customer service, data entry and retail positions, leading to widespread unemployment.
  • Universal Basic Income will become necessary as traditional employment decreases, though automation will also make goods and services more affordable.
  • The key challenge beyond implementing UBI will be helping people find purpose and meaning when traditional work is no longer needed for survival.

Remember when your parents told you that robots would never take your job? Well, grab your popcorn folks, because Elon Musk has some news that might make your career counselor sweat bullets.

In a candid discussion at the World Government Summit in Dubai, our favorite Mars-obsessed billionaire dropped some truth bombs about the future of work, automation, and why we might all need a government allowance sooner than we think.

The Rise of the Machines: Why Your Job Might Be at Risk

Before we dive into the spicy details of universal basic income, let's address the robot in the room. According to Musk, we're rapidly approaching a future where machines will outperform humans in virtually every job. And no, your special coffee-making skills won't save you this time.

Which Jobs Are Most Likely to Be Automated First?

While Musk doesn't specifically list jobs in the video, experts suggest these roles are prime candidates for automation:

  • Manufacturing and assembly line work
  • Transportation and delivery services
  • Customer service and call center operations
  • Data entry and basic administrative tasks
  • Retail checkout and inventory management

How Soon Will Automation Impact the Job Market?

The timeline isn't just theoretical anymore. Companies are already implementing automation solutions at an unprecedented rate. As Musk points out in the full conversation from the World Government Summit, this shift isn't something he necessarily wants to happen, it's something he believes will happen regardless of our preferences.

What Skills Will Still Be Valuable in an Automated World?

While robots may take over many traditional jobs, certain skills will remain valuable:

  • Creative problem-solving
  • Emotional intelligence
  • Complex decision-making
  • Innovation and entrepreneurship

Universal Basic Income: The Safety Net of the Future

Now, here's where things get interesting. Musk isn't just pointing out problems, he's talking solutions. And his big answer? Universal Basic Income (UBI). It's like an allowance from your government, but instead of having to clean your room, you just need to exist.

How Would Universal Basic Income Actually Work?

While the specific implementation details aren't covered in Musk's talk, here's what we know about UBI concepts:

  1. Regular payments to all citizens
  2. No means testing or work requirements
  3. Funded through taxation and automation dividends
  4. Designed to cover basic living expenses

Why Does Elon Musk Think UBI is Inevitable?

Musk's reasoning is pretty straightforward: as automation increases, traditional employment will decrease. But here's the silver lining - he predicts that automation will lead to an abundance of goods and services, making everything "very cheap." You can learn more about this perspective in the full transcript of his remarks.

What Are the Potential Challenges of Implementing UBI?

Implementation won't be a walk in the park. Key challenges include:

  • Determining appropriate payment amounts
  • Securing sustainable funding sources
  • Managing economic inflation
  • Maintaining productivity incentives

The Meaning Crisis: Life Beyond Work

Here's where Musk gets philosophical, and honestly, a bit worried. The real challenge isn't just about keeping people fed and housed - it's about keeping them fulfilled.

How Can People Find Purpose Without Traditional Jobs?

This is what Musk calls the "harder challenge." When your labor isn't needed, how do you maintain a sense of purpose? Some potential avenues include:

  • Personal creative projects
  • Community service and volunteering
  • Continuous learning and skill development
  • Relationship building and social connections

What Role Will Education Play in the Future?

Education will need to evolve dramatically to prepare people for this new reality. That's why platforms like Futurise are already offering courses in emerging technologies. The UiPath Course - Become an AI Automation Developer is particularly relevant for those wanting to stay ahead of the automation curve.

How Can Society Prepare for These Changes?

Preparation is key, and it starts with understanding these upcoming changes. Consider exploring automation technologies through courses like those offered by Futurise. Their free trial can help you get started on your journey to future-proofing your career.

To dive deeper into these fascinating insights about our automated future and universal basic income, check out the full interview on Matt Orfalea's YouTube channel. The conversation goes well beyond these highlights and offers a compelling glimpse into what might be the most significant economic transformation in human history.