OURS: The Case For Universal Property
Past Event
September 23,2021
Conversation with Mesa Refuge Founder Peter Barnes and Economist James Boyce
In his recent provocative book, Mesa Refuge founder Peter Barnes argues for injecting markets with a type of property that isn’t mine, yours or the state’s, but ours jointly—literally held in trust for each of us, living and yet-to-be born. Such property could protect critical ecosystems, pay lifelong dividends to everyone, and reduce the likelihood of financial crashes. The result would be a market economy in which businesses prosper, nature’s limits are respected, and a large middle class thrives. Find out more about the book and Peter’s work on his website.
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Robert Reich calls OURS “lucid and persuasive.” Mesa Refuge Alum Chuck Collins says, “OURS offers an elegant solution to inequality that is hiding in plain sight. It’s not subsidies or tax credits, just smart and fair management of wealth we inherit together.”
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Peter Barnes is an innovative thinker and entrepreneur whose work has focused on fixing the deep flaws of capitalism. He has written numerous books and articles, co-founded several socially responsible businesses (including Working Assets/Credo), and started a retreat for progressive thinkers and writers (The Mesa Refuge). He lives in Point Reyes Station, California, with his wife, dog and vegetable garden.
James K. Boyce is an author, economist, and emeritus professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst where he is also a senior fellow at the Political Economy Research Institute.