Thu Feb 26 04:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Rogan’s UBI Proposal: A $40 Trillion Miscalculation Sparks Debate on Automation’s Impact
The Story:
On a recent episode of “The Joe Rogan Experience,” host Joe Rogan discussed the concept of universal basic income (UBI) in the face of increasing automation. Rogan, along with guest Billy Carson, considered the possibility of providing every adult in the U.S. with $200,000 annually. During an on-air calculation, Rogan and his producer incorrectly estimated the total cost of such a program to be $40 billion, leading Rogan to deem it “reasonable.” The actual cost, however, would be $40 trillion, significantly exceeding the entire federal budget.
The article highlights the miscalculation while emphasizing the underlying debate about the potential economic consequences of automation and the need for solutions like UBI to ensure financial stability for individuals. It also points to alternative investment strategies, such as investing in AI startups, as a way to capitalize on the changing technological landscape.
Key Points:
* Joe Rogan discussed UBI on his podcast, proposing $200,000 per adult annually.
* Rogan and his producer miscalculated the total cost at $40 billion, when it is actually $40 trillion.
* The correct figure of $40 trillion would dwarf the projected federal outlays for fiscal 2026, which are estimated at $7.4 trillion.
* The discussion centered around the potential impact of automation on the workforce.
* The article suggests alternative investment strategies, such as investing in AI startups, as a response to automation.
Key Takeaways:
* The miscalculation underscores the complexity of implementing large-scale UBI programs.
* The conversation highlights growing concerns about job displacement due to automation.
* The article points to a potential shift in investment strategies towards technology-driven companies.
* The debate surrounding UBI is likely to intensify as AI and automation become more prevalent.
* The importance of accurate financial calculations is crucial when discussing significant policy proposals.
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