I think that's just it. Under our current system, that's what people believe because that's what we've been taught to believe in order to make the system work.

I think that's just it. Under our current system, that's what people believe because that's what we've been taught to believe in order to make the system work. But, if we were free from the need to earn income, would we all just curl up and die? Or, would we pursue other interests and make (perhaps even more valuable) contributions to society? In fact, when you look at the financial incentives our society provides, they are frequently misaligned with their net value to society. But, that's another discussion. The author makes the point that even now, much work is done for free and given away (software, music, content creation and information curation, etc.) Then, remember, this is just a basic, livable income. There is still financial incentive for those who desire more. Not having to work to live may be the best thing to ever happen to the planet. :)