• 45:30 - 49:51
Scott Santens | Universal Basic Income
Great Smoky Mountains Study, Cherokee Casino Dividends
The Great Smoky Mountains Study in North Carolina provided a natural experiment when Cherokee families began receiving unconditional dividends from a local casino. Researchers found that the additional income reduced household stress, leading to fewer parental arguments and better developmental outcomes for children. These children grew up with healthier "Big Five" personality traits, demonstrating that an income floor can create long-term psychological benefits for an entire generation.