Towards a Kantian Argument for a Universal Basic Income

AbstractThe paper defends that it is possible to offer a Kantian argument for justifying the introduction of Universal Basic Income (UBI). It first briefly presents Philippe van Parijs ’ argument for UBI based on the concept of real freedom for all. In doing so, it will focus on its general structure and central insight, without entering too much into other issues like the economic feasibility of UBI. It second briefly presents Kant’s concept of external freedom and especially focuses on some of its components to assess whether there is some closeness to van Parijs’ concept of real freedom. It further considers whether UBI is not only compatible with a Kantian position, but can be justified from such a position because it represents a tool for concretely realizing exte rnal freedom as presented in theDoctrine of Right and for attaining the ethical ideal of virtuosity presented in theDoctrine of Virtue.

Source: Ethical Theory and Moral Practice - November 9, 2022 Category: Medical Ethics Source Type: research