Ein Bürgergeld für alle?

More than two centuries ago, wage subsidies were introduced in England for the low-paid and unemployed. The system, known as Speenhamland, was praised, criticised and satirised. According to current research, not only did low energy and transport costs contribute to the advancement of the British economy, but so did relatively high wages and wage subsidies by increasing mass purchasing power. This study analyses the Speenhamland system in terms of its operation and effects and examines why it was abolished after 40 years despite its positive impact. The analysis provides a nuanced understanding of the potential of basic income policies in tackling social inequality and the climate crisis.