The Basic Income Guarantee and the goals of equality, efficiency, and environmentalism

The most important issue in equality – if not in all economic policy – is the persistence of poverty. This chapter argues that anti-poverty policy needs to move away from the categorical approach towards universalism, specifically in the form of a Basic Income Guarantee. This chapter argues that the Basic Income Guarantee, in any of its various versions (for example, a negative income tax, a universal Basic Income, or the social dividend) is the most efficient and comprehensive method to attack poverty. It can also be used as part of a strategy for environmental protection.