we pretty much have one now in Canada with social assistance, most if not all first world nations have one in some form or another.
When my son was very ill and under doctor's orders not to work he collected this "social assistance" for a few months, let me assure you it was no assistance just a social detriment. They give you almost enough to eat, lucky he was able to live with us while he recuperated. If you happen to need something like a pair of shoe laces or a pocket comb you are screwed. For people who refuse to work I'm all in favour of it, but it's no way to treat a decent human being who is unable to work.