【Unlocking Word Meanings】
今日の単語・フレーズ
Read the following words/expressions found in today’s article.
1. salary / ˈsæl ə ri / (n.) – the money an employee receives in exchange for work
Example: Joe’s salary increased upon his promotion.
2. model / ˈmɒd l / (n.) – the standard to be followed
Example: The model used for the experiment was not successful.
3. proof / pruf / (n.) – something that serves as evidence
Example: His promotion is proof that hard work pays off.
4. benefit / ˈbɛn ə fɪt / (n.) – a form of help or advantage given to someone
Example: All citizens should receive healthcare benefits from the government.
5. deny / dɪˈnaɪ / (v.) – to not give something to someone
Example: The citizens were denied of their right to vote.
【Article】
ニュース記事
Read the text below.
The Dutch city of Utrecht [YOO-trekt] plans to give money to some of its residents.
Utrecht plans to do a one-year experiment that involves giving basic income to people on welfare or to the unemployed who are receiving help from the government. Basic income is a type of payment given to help with living expenses.
The experiment is based on a model developed by the University of Utrecht. The participants will be divided into groups who will receive the same amount of money monthly. The control group consists of people who will remain in the current system. They receive money, but are required to find a job. Without a job, they will lose their benefits. The second group will be under the same system, but will have fewer rules to follow. Finally, those in the third group will receive money whether they get a job or not.
According to Jacqueline Hartogs, a Utrecht city official, the Dutch welfare system works based on mistrust. The experiment challenges the idea that people will not be motivated to find work if they receive money. If the experiment is successful, it could be proof that basic income can work.
While the future of the experiment is unclear, a similar study done in Uganda [yoo-GAN-duh] has shown that the basic income model can work. In the study, one group was given an amount equivalent to a year’s worth of salaries without any requirement, while the other group was not. Results showed that the first group invested their money on skills and businesses. They are also more likely to work longer hours than those who were denied of the benefit.
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【Viewpoint Discussion】
ディスカッションテーマ
Enjoy a discussion with your tutor.
Discussion A
· Do you think the Utrecht basic income model will work? Why or why not?
· Do you agree that receiving a basic income will encourage people not to work? Why or why not?
Discussion B
· Do you think the basic income model would work in your country? Why or why not?
· What would you do if you were given this kind of benefit?