Character Quote by Guy Standing
““What is the ethical or philosophical justification for a basic income? A fundamental claim is that it is an instrument of social justice that reflects the intrinsically social or collective character of society’s wealth. In the writer’s view, social justice is the most important rationale for moving towards basic income as an economic right, although it is complementary to the other two major rationales, namely freedom and economic security.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Basic Income: A Radical Proposal for a Free Society, 2011
Basic income is justified as a social‑justice tool reflecting collective wealth, alongside freedom and security.
In simple terms: Basic income promotes fairness and security.
Key Takeaway
Consider basic income as a social right.
Themes
social justice
economic rights
wealth distribution
freedom
Mood
thoughtful
hopeful
Type
philosophical
policy
When to use this quote
- policy debate
- social welfare design
- public budgeting
Key Concepts
collective wealth
redistributive policy
human dignity
Questions to Reflect On
- What would basic income cost and how could it be funded?
- How might it change work incentives?
A Different Perspective
Implementation may face fiscal constraints and political resistance.
