Le revenu de base, projet utopique ou dystopique ? Analyse critique de politique économique.

Abstract

Basic income, utopia or dystopia? In recent years, this issue has frequently been discussed in the public debate. Indeed, one must say that the proposal is enticing: to give to each and everyone an identical income - more or less important -, regardless of one's living standard, patrimony or personal situation. For those in favor, this income would eradicate poverty, provide support to the most precarious, and promote self-entrepreneurship. This study raises the question of whether such an income would be beneficial to the society in general. It analyzes in a critical way the history of the idea, its models, and their impact on the economic policy. Eventually, this document addresses the issue of work automatization. As a conclusion, this Master Thesis overviews different alternatives to the basic income, in the hope that such thoughts will help to contribute to a more sustainable future.