Host:
Fabian Wendt
Salon Description:
Why not let the government pay every citizen $1,000 every month? The strikingly simple idea of a universal basic income (UBI), a secure floor to stand on for all, has recently gained increased attention. Presidential candidate Andrew Yang had it on his agenda (he called it a “Freedom Dividend”), it was discussed as a response to the pandemic in spring 2020, and several UBI experiments have been conducted all over the world, one of them starting in Durham soon.
In this PPE salon, led by Professor Fabian Wendt, we discuss the pros and cons of a universal basic income, focusing on an article by leading UBI proponent Philippe Van Parijs and three short supplementary articles (one critique from the left, one from the libertarian right, one on the Durham UBI).
Required Reading:
- Philippe Van Parijs, A Basic Income for All. Short, but comprehensive introduction by one of UBI’s leading proponents.
Supplementary Readings:
- Anna Coote, Universal Basic Income Doesn’t Work. A. very short critique from the (moderate) left.
- David R. Henderson, Universal Basic Income, in Perspective. A very short critique from the libertarian right.
- Charlie Ennis, “Durham may give formerly incarcerated residents $500 per month in guaranteed income.” A local relevant news piece.