As defined by BIEN (Basic Income Earth Network), "A Basic Income is an income unconditionally granted to all on an individual basis, without means test or work requirement". The principle is to allow the impoverished basic needs to survive, and the freedom to monetarily pursue happiness through labor or other means. This concept is not remotely new, and likely petitioned in various names repeatedly. The studies done are books, and theses, and conventions of promoting mass awareness of this economic strategy.
Without any income, an individual cannot function in the economy. That is the blind truth. Our government would do well to push further to analyze its benefits.