Some Theoretical Aspects of a Universal Basic Income Proposal∗

Maitreesh Ghatak†François Maniquet‡

Abstract

In this paper, we review the possible theoretical justifications of intro- ducing a universal basic income (UBI) and examine the determinants of its feasibility and scope. We begin by contrasting the unconditionality of UBI with the many conditions that typically accompany welfare policies. Possible justifications for an unconditional UBI range from pure normative reasons to practical reasons due to the problem of screening beneficiaries and imperfections of the public agencies. We also explore theoretically the conditions that determine the feasibility and size of a UBI. The broad pic- ture that emerges from our review is that […]

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