Abstract:
In the midst of the Universal Basic Income (UBI) debate, a critical question emerges: How does a Basic Income impact family and professional caregiving? When we delve into discussions about care in the context of UBI, we uncover a plethora of arguments and perspectives. Historically, these conversations have been predominantly feminist in nature, focusing primarily on the gender division of labor and the quest for gender justice. But does a UBI truly resolve this division or inadvertently reinforce it? It's noteworthy that the arguments on this issue stand in stark opposition to each other, with pro and con arguments entwined in a never-ending tug of war. Furthermore, these discussions tend to lump all care activities with a feminine connotation together. The initial hypotheses put forward by UBI proponents Guy Standing and Philippe van Parijs regarding the potential impact on caregivers have remained relatively superficial, leaving the debate seemingly stagnant for years. While addressing gender equity is undoubtedly central to the UBI debate, it raises the question: Must it be the sole focus? Is there room for a non feminist perspective on caregiving? As a researcher, I'm compelled to ask: Can we envision a discussion that transcends gender? (...)