Food as a Political Weapon: Phasing In Universal Basic Rations and Beyond

Often overlooked, food has long been recognized as a potent instrument in the hands of policymakers. It can be deployed as a soft weapon, a means to shape public opinion and maintain control. This article explores how food is already used as a political tool and discusses the feasibility of universal basic rations as a way to tackle this issue.

Food as a Soft Weapon

One form of food as a political weapon has been seen through subsidies and distribution strategies. For example, in many countries, there are generous subsidies on grains that are often given away for free, despite the fact that these nations produce more than they need for a given year. This is a soft weapon in disguise. The political implications are clear: “keep voting for this party providing food and you will keep on getting it.”

Another method is to deny access to food by artificially inflating prices or forcibly withholding stocks for political reasons. While the United Nations (UN) can provide food aid during calamities, its power to prevent political manipulation of food supplies is limited.

Proposals for Universal Basic Rations

The article suggests a more structured approach to food distribution through universal basic rations, aimed at providing a minimum quantity of food without any concerns of cost. This initiative is designed to protect individuals from being coerced into working for sub-minimum wages. Additionally, it aims to encourage the equitable use of resources and prevent hoarding, even of money.

The proposed system would involve: Granting everyone in the world a certain minimum quantity of food without the concern of cost. Relying on a unit of measurement specific to each area to assess the minimum amount of work required.

This approach could potentially reduce instances of blackmail and forced labor. Furthermore, it would enable people to live without the constant fear of insecurity, thus fostering a more conducive environment for personal growth and development.

Tackling Entitlement and Laziness

To counteract the perceptions of laziness and entitlement politics, the author proposes an economic strategy that heavily taxes non-essential goods and services. This would ensure that individuals have to work hard to earn what they consume, thereby promoting a lifestyle of choice rather than circumstance.

The goal is to place a premium on anything beyond basic survival needs, which would help to balance the economic scales and encourage productivity.

Conclusion

In summary, food has already become a tool for political manipulation, often leading to inequitable distribution and control. However, through the implementation of universal basic rations and an overhaul of the economic system, humanity can take steps towards providing for everyone's basic needs. By doing so, we can create a fairer and more secure world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Note: The author believes that given the global production surplus, the world should already be focusing on the basic survival needs of all individuals, and diverting more resources to essential needs rather than wasteful spending.