PTE Summarize Written Text Task Sample 220

Read the passage below and summarize it using one sentence. Type your response in the box at the bottom of the screen. You have 10 minutes to finish this task. Your response will be judged on the quality of your writing and on how well your response presents the key points in the passage.

Exploring the Viability of Universal Basic Income

The concept of universal basic income (UBI) has gained traction as a potential solution to address poverty, inequality, and the changing nature of work.

Proponents argue that providing every citizen with a guaranteed income can alleviate financial stress, promote social stability, and empower individuals to pursue opportunities that contribute to their well-being.

UBI offers a safety net for all individuals, ensuring that no one falls below a certain income threshold regardless of employment status. It provides financial security, enabling people to meet their basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare.

Additionally, UBI has the potential to streamline welfare systems, reducing bureaucracy and administrative costs.

Moreover, UBI can address the challenges posed by automation and job displacement in an increasingly digital economy. By providing a steady source of income, UBI empowers individuals to adapt to changing labor markets, pursue education and training, or engage in entrepreneurship.

However, critics express concerns about the affordability and potential disincentive effects of UBI. They argue that financing UBI would require substantial tax increases or budget reallocations, potentially stifling economic growth. Additionally, some fear that UBI could discourage workforce participation and lead to dependency on government assistance.

Despite these challenges, pilot programs and experiments with UBI have shown promising results, suggesting that it warrants further consideration. As societies grapple with economic insecurity and inequality, UBI offers a bold approach to promote social justice and ensure economic dignity for all citizens.

Summary:

Exploring the viability of Universal Basic Income (UBI), proponents argue that it can alleviate poverty, promote social stability, empower individuals in the face of job displacement, and streamline welfare systems, while critics raise concerns about affordability, potential disincentive effects, and dependency on government assistance, yet pilot programs show promising results warranting further consideration.