Economists Quote by Rutger Bregman
“Instead of a universal basic income, we could have a basic income guarantee. Or, as economists prefer to call it, a negative income tax.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on Basic Income, 2020
A basic income guarantee, similar to a negative income tax, can replace universal basic income to target support.
In simple terms: Targeted income support via tax system.
Key Takeaway
Implement a negative income tax.
Themes
economics
policy
social welfare
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
policy
economic
When to use this quote
- government budgeting
- poverty reduction
- social safety nets
- tax reform
Key Concepts
negative income tax
universal basic income
progressive taxation
Questions to Reflect On
- How would a negative income tax affect labor markets?
- What safeguards are needed to prevent abuse?
A Different Perspective
Requires careful calibration to avoid disincentives for work.
