Background
The double-dividend hypothesis suggests that implementing a tax on an activity responsible for negative externalities will not only mitigate the externality itself but also generate revenue allowing for a reduction in other distortionary taxes.
Historical Context
The concept emerged as a popular discussion point in environmental economics in the late 20th century. It aligns with increasing concerns over environmental sustainability and economic efficiency.
Definitions and Concepts
Double-Dividend Hypothesis: The theory that a tax on a negative externality-generating activity can simultaneously reduce the externality and increase tax revenue, enabling the reduction of other taxes.
Major Analytical Frameworks
Classical Economics
Classical economics doesn’t directly engage with the concept of the double dividend but emphasizes efficient taxation, which aligns partially with reducing distortionary taxes.
Neoclassical Economics
Neoclassical models focus on market efficiency and often analyze the implications of environmental taxes and their potential to reduce market distortions.
Keynesian Economics
Keynesian economics might examine the double-dividend hypothesis in the context of fiscal policy and its impact on aggregate demand and employment levels.
Marxian Economics
Marxian economics may critique the double-dividend hypothesis by arguing that it does not fundamentally alter the capitalist structure, which it sees as the root of environmental degradation.
Institutional Economics
This framework might analyze the role of institutions in implementing effective environmental policies, enabling the double-dividend hypothesis.
Behavioral Economics
Behavioral economists might look at how individuals and firms respond to environmental taxes, affecting the hypothesis’s practical validity.
Post-Keynesian Economics
Could examine the double-dividend hypothesis through the lens of effective demand and the distribution of the tax burden.
Austrian Economics
Typically skeptic of taxation’s efficacy, theorists here might question the feasibility of achieving a double dividend without market distortions.
Development Economics
Would analyze how environmental taxes and potential double dividends impact economic development, especially in low-income countries.
Monetarism
Focuses likely on the implications of environmental taxes on inflation and the money supply, examining second-order effects of the double-dividend hypothesis.
Comparative Analysis
Comparing different frameworks offers insight into the feasibility, effectiveness, and broader implications of pursuing a double-dividend strategy.
Case Studies
- Sweden’s Carbon Tax: A prominent example that shows reduced emissions alongside significant revenue generation.
- United Kingdom Landfill Tax: Demonstrates similar effects by reducing waste and contributing to public revenue.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Environmental and Natural Resource Economics” by Tom Tietenberg
- “Green Tax Reform: An Imperative for Improving Financial System Savines” by Dr. C. George Sizemore
- “Blueprint for a Green Economy” by David Pearce, Anil Markandya, and Edward B. Barbier
Related Terms with Definitions
- Externalities: Costs or benefits not reflected in market prices experienced by third parties.
- Pigovian Tax: A tax imposed to correct the negative externalities of a market activity.
- Carbon Tax: A tax on carbon emissions intended to reduce global warming.
- Distortionary Taxes: Taxes that cause significant changes in behavior and loss of economic efficiency.
