the UBI guy
@theubiguy.bsky.social
Conrad Shaw - #UBI researcher/writer,
Manager of the Bootstraps #BasicIncome trial,
Creator of http://UBIcalculator.com,
Co-founder of http://Comingle.us & http://ITSAfoundation.org
Manager of the Bootstraps #BasicIncome trial,
Creator of http://UBIcalculator.com,
Co-founder of http://Comingle.us & http://ITSAfoundation.org
Pinned
the UBI guy
@theubiguy.bsky.social
· Jun 27
ITSA UBI Project: Comingle
By Income To Support All Foundation
givebutter.com
Alrighty folks.
Government ain't gonna do it.
Philanthropy won't either.
This can't wait any longer.
Time to throw down and build our own UBI.
Are you in?
givebutter.com/NB7TFF
Government ain't gonna do it.
Philanthropy won't either.
This can't wait any longer.
Time to throw down and build our own UBI.
Are you in?
givebutter.com/NB7TFF
Reposted by the UBI guy
This just happened in the The Netherlands today. The centrist "D66" party, running on a platform that includes a universal basic income, won the most votes, positioning its leader to become the new PM. You heard that right, UBI is now a moderate position there and seen as a pragmatic solution to AI.
![D66's Rise on Social Liberal Platform Sparks Debate on Shifting Political Labels
The Hague - The strong performance of the Dutch political party Democrats 66 (D66) in the general election on October 29, 2025, where they tied for the most seats, has ignited a conversation about the evolution of political ideologies. Running on an explicitly social liberal platform, D66's success, which included a proposal for an "individual basic amount" akin to a Universal Basic Income (UBI), has led many to observe a notable shift in how such policies are framed – from being decried as "Socialist" just a few years ago to now being considered "pragmatic centrism."
In the recent election, D66, led by Rob Jetten, secured 26 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives, a significant gain that positioned them as a major force in the coalition negotiations.[1][2] Their campaign was characterized by a positive and forward-looking message, with analysts noting that voters were drawn to their "stable, centrist coalition" appeal.[3]
A key plank of their platform was the introduction of an "individual basic amount," a policy aimed at simplifying the current complex benefits system.[4] This proposal is seen by many as a form of UBI, an idea that has been debated in the Netherlands for decades.
Historically, the concept of a basic income has seen support from various corners of the Dutch political landscape. As far back as the 1990s, figures within D66 publicly favored the idea.[4] The GreenLeft party (GroenLinks) has also previously endorsed a form of negative income tax with the long-term goal of a basic income.[4] However, mainstream parties, including the Labour Party (PvdA) and the conservative VVD, have historically been more hesitant or outright opposed, often raising concerns about the work ethic and the underlying principles of the existing social security system.[5]
The recent success of D66's proposal has prompted reflection on a potential shift in the political discourse.](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:weypikbrwodr2fsanloqjx6s/bafkreienj2htkaj6ma6zf2zvgw2aaiajkppzj3k6nqprml23bn5yq3dagu@jpeg)
![D66's "Individual Basic Amount": A Closer Look at the Proposal
The social-liberal party D66 has centered its successful 2025 election campaign on a significant overhaul of the Dutch social security system, introducing a proposal for an "individual basic amount" for every adult citizen. This plan, a cornerstone of their manifesto, aims to replace the current complex web of benefits and allowances with a single, more direct form of income support.
Core Principles of the Proposal:
The fundamental idea behind the "individual basic amount" is to provide a foundational income floor for all adults in the Netherlands.[1][2] This would function in two primary ways:
For those with sufficient income: It would act as a tax credit, reducing their overall tax burden.[3][4]
For those with little to no income: It would be disbursed as a direct cash payment.[3][4]
This system is designed to simplify the current labyrinthine benefits system, which D66 argues is overly bureaucratic and often difficult for citizens to navigate.[1] The party's manifesto explicitly states the goal is to move towards a system that offers more financial security and simplicity.
Phasing Out Existing Benefits:
A key component of the proposal is the gradual elimination of several existing allowances. The health and childcare allowances are specifically targeted to be eventually scrapped and integrated into the new "individual basic amount."[5] This consolidation is intended to streamline support and reduce the administrative overhead associated with the current multi-benefit system.
Funding the Transition:
D66 plans to finance this ambitious overhaul through a broader restructuring of the tax system. One of the primary funding mechanisms outlined is the phasing out of the existing mortgage interest tax relief.[6] Additionally, the party has proposed increasing taxes on wealth and introducing a "millionaire's tax" to generate further revenue. This approach signals a shift in the tax burden...](https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:weypikbrwodr2fsanloqjx6s/bafkreidzwuihv4hmobifafipe7y2hts73c6o6rsx5ba6voz2tmo62no2ci@jpeg)
October 30, 2025 at 9:19 PM
This just happened in the The Netherlands today. The centrist "D66" party, running on a platform that includes a universal basic income, won the most votes, positioning its leader to become the new PM. You heard that right, UBI is now a moderate position there and seen as a pragmatic solution to AI.
Join us live to talk UBI!
Now livestreaming episode 25 of The Basic Income Show where we talk about the latest stuff about universal basic income.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkpK...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=qkpK...
Welcome to The Basic Income Show Live Stream!
YouTube video by Scott Santens
www.youtube.com
October 29, 2025 at 4:26 PM
Join us live to talk UBI!
The health and wellbeing of my fellow Americans.
If you had Universal Basic Income (UBI), what's one thing you'd feel more secure about?
October 25, 2025 at 12:29 PM
The health and wellbeing of my fellow Americans.
Livestreaming now! Come talk the latest in UBI with us.
Now livestreaming Episode 24 of The Basic Income Show. Please subscribe to support the channel!
www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ8-...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=hJ8-...
Welcome to The Basic Income Show Live Stream!
YouTube video by Scott Santens
www.youtube.com
October 8, 2025 at 4:18 PM
Livestreaming now! Come talk the latest in UBI with us.
The phrase "pick yourself up by your bootstraps" was originally coined as a way to insult people for trying to do something obviously impossible.
Somewhere along the way, we forgot it was mockery and took it as inspiration, a deluded twisting of the American Dream in which we all must be Superman.
Somewhere along the way, we forgot it was mockery and took it as inspiration, a deluded twisting of the American Dream in which we all must be Superman.
What do you think about the phrase “Pull yourself up by your bootstraps"?
What if we gave everyone the 'bootstraps' they need? Share your thoughts 👇
What if we gave everyone the 'bootstraps' they need? Share your thoughts 👇
October 2, 2025 at 2:41 PM
The phrase "pick yourself up by your bootstraps" was originally coined as a way to insult people for trying to do something obviously impossible.
Somewhere along the way, we forgot it was mockery and took it as inspiration, a deluded twisting of the American Dream in which we all must be Superman.
Somewhere along the way, we forgot it was mockery and took it as inspiration, a deluded twisting of the American Dream in which we all must be Superman.
Livestreaming now, let's talk UBI!
September 24, 2025 at 4:30 PM
Livestreaming now, let's talk UBI!
"UBI is not a theory in search of proof; it’s a foundation in search of political will."
Important article by @scottsantens responding to the recent wave of high profile articles cherry-picking weird study data to pretend that UBI has failed.
scottsantens.substack.com/p/the-report...
Important article by @scottsantens responding to the recent wave of high profile articles cherry-picking weird study data to pretend that UBI has failed.
scottsantens.substack.com/p/the-report...
The Reports of UBI’s Death Are Greatly Exaggerated
The Mountain of Positive Results vs. Pandemic-Era Nulls
scottsantens.substack.com
September 14, 2025 at 1:10 PM
"UBI is not a theory in search of proof; it’s a foundation in search of political will."
Important article by @scottsantens responding to the recent wave of high profile articles cherry-picking weird study data to pretend that UBI has failed.
scottsantens.substack.com/p/the-report...
Important article by @scottsantens responding to the recent wave of high profile articles cherry-picking weird study data to pretend that UBI has failed.
scottsantens.substack.com/p/the-report...
Trick question. I want to learn all the skills.
If you had a basic income, what's one skill you'd love to learn or pursue?
September 10, 2025 at 3:53 PM
Trick question. I want to learn all the skills.
Join us livestreaming to chat the latest in the world of UBI!
Now livestreaming episode 22 of The Basic Income Show for anyone who wants to watch and interact with us live.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=yM6m...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=yM6m...
Welcome to The Basic Income Show Live Stream!
YouTube video by Scott Santens
www.youtube.com
September 4, 2025 at 5:49 PM
Join us livestreaming to chat the latest in the world of UBI!
Reposted by the UBI guy
@netrootsnation.bsky.social #NN25 was incredible!
We showed a sneak peek of BOOTSTRAPS, our #UBI docuseries, and the interactive discussion (facilitated by @theubiguy.bsky.social and @corineolarte.bsky.social) was so engaging it went over time!
Curious about what's next? Follow us! 🎥
We showed a sneak peek of BOOTSTRAPS, our #UBI docuseries, and the interactive discussion (facilitated by @theubiguy.bsky.social and @corineolarte.bsky.social) was so engaging it went over time!
Curious about what's next? Follow us! 🎥
August 14, 2025 at 8:59 PM
@netrootsnation.bsky.social #NN25 was incredible!
We showed a sneak peek of BOOTSTRAPS, our #UBI docuseries, and the interactive discussion (facilitated by @theubiguy.bsky.social and @corineolarte.bsky.social) was so engaging it went over time!
Curious about what's next? Follow us! 🎥
We showed a sneak peek of BOOTSTRAPS, our #UBI docuseries, and the interactive discussion (facilitated by @theubiguy.bsky.social and @corineolarte.bsky.social) was so engaging it went over time!
Curious about what's next? Follow us! 🎥
Reposted by the UBI guy
If Universal Basic Income was part of your life, how would your relationship with your community transform?
Think about your daily interactions. Would you find yourself more or less connected and supportive? How might it change your sense of security?
#UBI #HumansofUBI #AudienceAnswers
Think about your daily interactions. Would you find yourself more or less connected and supportive? How might it change your sense of security?
#UBI #HumansofUBI #AudienceAnswers
August 13, 2025 at 11:51 PM
If Universal Basic Income was part of your life, how would your relationship with your community transform?
Think about your daily interactions. Would you find yourself more or less connected and supportive? How might it change your sense of security?
#UBI #HumansofUBI #AudienceAnswers
Think about your daily interactions. Would you find yourself more or less connected and supportive? How might it change your sense of security?
#UBI #HumansofUBI #AudienceAnswers
Come join the livestream, let's talk UBI!
August 13, 2025 at 4:38 PM
Come join the livestream, let's talk UBI!
Reposted by the UBI guy
The @bootstrapstv.bsky.social project is something that Emmy award-winning director @deiafilm.bsky.social and @theubiguy.bsky.social have been working on since 2016. After a decade of prep, filming and post-prod, 2026 is its due date. Help us fund 100+ nationwide screenings.
givebutter.com/9sEnIs
givebutter.com/9sEnIs
Bootstraps UBI Docuseries Impact Campaign
Help us fund 100+ Bootstraps screening events around the country
givebutter.com
August 8, 2025 at 4:41 PM
The @bootstrapstv.bsky.social project is something that Emmy award-winning director @deiafilm.bsky.social and @theubiguy.bsky.social have been working on since 2016. After a decade of prep, filming and post-prod, 2026 is its due date. Help us fund 100+ nationwide screenings.
givebutter.com/9sEnIs
givebutter.com/9sEnIs
Corine and I will be presenting at Netroots Nation in New Orleans this week. Is anybody going to be there? Come see some of our docuseries and talk UBI with us!
Do you know anyone who has actually had #UniversalBasicIncome? Now you do! 💸
At @netrootsnation.bsky.social in #NewOrleans, @corineolarte.bsky.social, one of the docuseries subjects, who will join our speaker session to share her personal experiences going through the basic income program.
At @netrootsnation.bsky.social in #NewOrleans, @corineolarte.bsky.social, one of the docuseries subjects, who will join our speaker session to share her personal experiences going through the basic income program.
August 4, 2025 at 12:53 AM
Corine and I will be presenting at Netroots Nation in New Orleans this week. Is anybody going to be there? Come see some of our docuseries and talk UBI with us!
Reposted by the UBI guy
Join us at @netrootsnation.bsky.social in #NewOrleans on Saturday, August 9 @ 2:00pm CDT! 🎺
🎟️ Register for #NN25 and get 10% off: https://socio.pulse.ly/rezzlrvkvr
📱 Open the #NetrootsNation app, search "Bootstraps," and hit + to add our session to your #NN25 agenda.
🎟️ Register for #NN25 and get 10% off: https://socio.pulse.ly/rezzlrvkvr
📱 Open the #NetrootsNation app, search "Bootstraps," and hit + to add our session to your #NN25 agenda.
August 1, 2025 at 3:00 PM
Join us at @netrootsnation.bsky.social in #NewOrleans on Saturday, August 9 @ 2:00pm CDT! 🎺
🎟️ Register for #NN25 and get 10% off: https://socio.pulse.ly/rezzlrvkvr
📱 Open the #NetrootsNation app, search "Bootstraps," and hit + to add our session to your #NN25 agenda.
🎟️ Register for #NN25 and get 10% off: https://socio.pulse.ly/rezzlrvkvr
📱 Open the #NetrootsNation app, search "Bootstraps," and hit + to add our session to your #NN25 agenda.
Livestreaming now. Let's bitch about the new terrible NYT article, for one thing.
July 30, 2025 at 4:17 PM
Livestreaming now. Let's bitch about the new terrible NYT article, for one thing.
Reposted by the UBI guy
What hopes do you have for a future where everyone has a basic income?
"I would love to see a renaissance of art and music that romanticizes the positive aspects of what it means to be human, to wonder, to explore, to evolve, and to love."
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
"I would love to see a renaissance of art and music that romanticizes the positive aspects of what it means to be human, to wonder, to explore, to evolve, and to love."
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
July 24, 2025 at 9:59 PM
What hopes do you have for a future where everyone has a basic income?
"I would love to see a renaissance of art and music that romanticizes the positive aspects of what it means to be human, to wonder, to explore, to evolve, and to love."
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
"I would love to see a renaissance of art and music that romanticizes the positive aspects of what it means to be human, to wonder, to explore, to evolve, and to love."
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
Reposted by the UBI guy
How would it impact your day-to-day routine, your dreams, or your finances?
If $1000 isn’t quite the right figure for you, what amount of #BasicIncome would be ideal? We want to hear your thoughts.
#UniversalBasicIncome #UBI #AudienceAnswers #HumansofUBI
If $1000 isn’t quite the right figure for you, what amount of #BasicIncome would be ideal? We want to hear your thoughts.
#UniversalBasicIncome #UBI #AudienceAnswers #HumansofUBI
July 23, 2025 at 9:02 PM
How would it impact your day-to-day routine, your dreams, or your finances?
If $1000 isn’t quite the right figure for you, what amount of #BasicIncome would be ideal? We want to hear your thoughts.
#UniversalBasicIncome #UBI #AudienceAnswers #HumansofUBI
If $1000 isn’t quite the right figure for you, what amount of #BasicIncome would be ideal? We want to hear your thoughts.
#UniversalBasicIncome #UBI #AudienceAnswers #HumansofUBI
I believe in UBI because I believe in you.
Yes, you.
Yes, you.
July 23, 2025 at 2:56 AM
I believe in UBI because I believe in you.
Yes, you.
Yes, you.
How would these UBI proposals work out for you and your household?
So... will you gain or lose money at the end of the day?
Well, it depends how it's designed!
The UBI Calculator is as simple to use as it is to share a way for you to start exploring the possibilities of universal basic income.
What do you think: https://ubicalculator.pulse.ly/dafj767ty2
Well, it depends how it's designed!
The UBI Calculator is as simple to use as it is to share a way for you to start exploring the possibilities of universal basic income.
What do you think: https://ubicalculator.pulse.ly/dafj767ty2
July 20, 2025 at 11:11 PM
How would these UBI proposals work out for you and your household?
Reposted by the UBI guy
What would you do if you got an extra $1000 per month?
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
July 18, 2025 at 12:27 AM
What would you do if you got an extra $1000 per month?
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
Reposted by the UBI guy
Does the salary of your dream job keep you from pursuing it?
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
July 18, 2025 at 11:23 PM
Does the salary of your dream job keep you from pursuing it?
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI
#UniversalBasicIncome #BasicIncome #UBI #HumansofUBI