1. The Case against a Carbon Tax
- Author:
- Robert P. Murphy, Patrick J. Michaels, and Paul "Chip" Knappenberger
- Publication Date:
- 10-2015
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- The Cato Institute
- Abstract:
- A vigorous campaign aimed at American policymakers and the general public has tried to create the perception that a federal carbon tax (or similar type of “carbon price”) is a crucial element in the urgently needed response to climate change. Within conservative and libertarian circles, a small but vocal group of academics, analysts, and political officials are claiming that a revenue-neutral carbon tax swap could even deliver a “double dividend” — meaning that the conventional economy would be spurred in addition to any climate benefits. The present study details several serious problems with these claims. The actual economics of climate change — as summarized in the peer-reviewed literature as well as the U.N. and Obama Administration reports — reveal that the case for a U.S. carbon tax is weaker than the public has been told.
- Topic:
- Climate Change, Economics, Energy Policy, and Politics
- Political Geography:
- Global Focus