Sociology 1027A/B Lecture Notes - Lecture 10: Negative Income Tax, Basic Income, Redistribution Of Income And Wealth

• School: Western University
• Department: Sociology
• Course: Sociology 1027A/B
• Professor: Wolfgang Lehmann

Document Summary

Lower levels of inequality benefit everybody: comparisons: happiness o. Individuals in more equal (and collectivist) societies seem happier than those in highly unequal (and individualistic) societies: comparisons: voter turnout o. It reduces economic security related to illness, age, and unemployment. It provides the public with a range of social services. It raises taxes and redistributes income: welfare states differ by the extent to which they do the above, the scandinavian/european model. High welfare expenditures: the american/british model: Relatively low taxes (especially for high earners) Mostly needs-tested programs (especially us) or privatized welfare. Solution thought through markets (ex. lower corporate taxes to create employment: welfare expenditures in comparison, but: expenditures can be a misleading measure; Paid as cash transfer from government to citizens not tied to labor market participation. It ensures income at a level sufficient to meet basic needs and live with dignity, regardless of work status.