The Hedonist Case for a Basic Income

Abstract

Arguments for a basic income from a hedonistic utilitarian perspective are rarely discussed in the literature. This paper discusses the hedonist case for a basic income, based on a broad Epicurean (and slightly Millian) conception of happiness. The conclusion is that basic income, at least prima facie, seems to have many advantages from a hedonist perspective, although there are empirical contextual factors that may weaken the argument, for instance the degree to which the no-activity-requirement principle inherent in basic income reinforces involuntary passive isolation among some individuals, the degree to which the non-hedonist minority are willing to contribute to the costs of a basic income scheme, and the degree to which voters are willing to grant basic income to immigrants.