Determinants of the Unconditional Basic Income Acceptance Among German Citizens: An Empirical Analysis Based on Innovation Resistance Theory

Abstract

Considering the uncertainty that accompanies political reforms, this study examines the determinants of universal basic income (UBI) acceptance among a representative sample of 593 German citizens using innovation resistance theory. The study aimed to determine whether passive innovation resistance (PIR) negatively influences UBI acceptance and to investigate how active evaluation of pro‐ and con‐arguments, potentially leading to active innovation resistance (AIR), affects this relationship. The results indicate that both PIR and AIR reduce UBI acceptance. Social influence and individual advantages appear to be the primary drivers of UBI support, while counter‐arguments have a relatively minor impact. AIR is mainly influenced by individual economic effects, universality and social justice, whereas unconditionality has a negligible effect. The study also reveals moderation effects of age and political orientation (liberal vs. conservative) and provides practical insights along with suggestions for future research.