The Future of Work and the Australian Surfing Connection: A Tale of UBI and the 'Useless Class'
The AI Tsunami: A Looming Threat to Society?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize the world, but at what cost? Experts predict that in the coming decades, AI could render millions, if not billions, of people jobless. This potential future, as envisioned by historian Yuval Harari, paints a grim picture of a 'useless class' devoid of any societal value.
Universal Basic Income: A Solution or a Problem?
The concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) has emerged as a potential solution to this impending crisis. However, critics argue that UBI might create a population lacking purpose and ambition. But is this truly the case? Let's delve into a unique chapter of Australian history to explore this further.
The Dole and Australian Surfing: A Unique Connection
For nearly three decades, Australian surfers enjoyed a form of UBI, affectionately known as 'the dole'. This system, though controversial, offers insights into how a 'useless class' might find purpose. The dole, despite its impact on surf culture, has been largely overlooked by the media. This historical blind spot is attributed to the influence of neoliberal ideas and the market's dominance over surfing culture.
The Post-War Era: A Golden Age for Surfers?
The post-World War II era brought about significant innovations that shaped surfing. From polyurethane to surf forecasting, these advancements emerged from the global conflict. Additionally, the welfare state, inspired by the Atlantic Charter, aimed to provide economic security as a human right. By 1945, Australia had implemented a fully-fledged dole system, a responsibility of the Commonwealth.
The Counter-Culture Movement and the Rise of the Dole
The conservative Australian surfing scene of the 1950s and 1960s transformed with the counter-culture movement. Influenced by anti-war protests and a embrace of alternative lifestyles, surfing became more than just a hobby. This shift was largely driven by Californian culture, as surfers sought utopian coastal living in Australia.
The Dole: A Way of Life for Surfers
The early 1970s saw a surge in this movement, as Australian working-class energy was harnessed. Despite economic challenges, the dole provided a means for surfers to live a coastal dream. Renting a farmhouse for as little as $4 a week, with milk delivery included, was a reality. Though the dole was meager, it was indexed, and housing costs were minimal. Surfboard prices were affordable, and though survival on the dole was challenging, it was possible with some creativity.
The Eighties: A Decade of Excess and the Dole
The 1980s are remembered as a decade of excess and greed. Yet, it began with a brutal recession. The election of the ALP government saw unemployment soar. This era gave birth to the legendary Bob Hawke Surf Team, a symbol of the time when renters could afford beachside houses with the dole and some supplementary cash work.
The Dole and Domestic Travel
The dole, being a Commonwealth responsibility, facilitated domestic travel. Surfers could register for the dole in various locations, meandering across the country, collecting cheques, and camping at iconic spots. This freedom of movement and the ability to sustain a surfing lifestyle on the dole is a unique aspect of Australian history.
The Dole's Impact on Music and Surfing
The dole culture in Australia had a profound impact on both music and surfing. Similar to the UK's dole scene, which birthed great bands, Australia's dole payments supported a flourishing music scene. Additionally, the public sponsorship of surfing hours through the dole likely contributed to the incredible success of Australian pro surfing in the late 20th century.
The End of an Era: The Dole's Extinction
The early 1990s recession marked the beginning of the end for the dole-funded surf lifestyle. As neoliberal policies took hold, the cost of living increased, and the under-the-table cash economy was tightened. Real estate booms and rising rents made it impossible to sustain a coastal life on the dole. The demographic and ecological niche once occupied by dole bludgers is now largely filled by tradies and sea change boomers.
Looking to the Future: AI and UBI
As we face the potential economic tsunami of AI-induced unemployment, the Australian experience with the dole provides valuable insights. The success of the dole system, coupled with affordable housing and access to supplementary work, offers a potential template for managing widespread unemployment. Time spent in the ocean, developing skills and community, could be our best defense against the AI tsunami. What do you think? Is UBI the answer to a potential 'useless class' future? Share your thoughts in the comments!
