The debate over universal basic income (UBI) as a potential replacement for traditional welfare systems is one of the most polarizing in modern economics and social policy. Proponents argue that UBI—a regular, unconditional cash payment to all citizens regardless of employment status—could eradicate poverty, reduce inequality, and adapt society to automation-driven job losses. Critics, however, warn that it could erode the work ethic, balloon government budgets, and ultimately harm the economy by reducing