Can anything ever be truly unconditional? Can public services such as healthcare or education be unconditional? And can an income ever be unconditional? This incisive book responds to these questions with a qualified ‘yes,’ and considers whether a social policy regime based on unconditionality might ever replace neoliberalism.

Beginning with an exploration of the meaning of unconditionality and how the term relates to concepts such as universality and reciprocity, Malcolm Torry lays the foundations for an understanding of what an unconditionality paradigm in social policy might look like. He investigates how social policy characterised by unconditionality might fit within the spectrum of welfare state regimes and sets out the arguments for and against unconditionality in healthcare, education, income provision, and other social policy areas. Chapters delve into the history and ethics of unconditionality in social policy, with close reference to Hebrew and Christian scripture and philosophers’ discussions on the possibility of unconditional giving.

A key contribution to global debate on unconditionality in social policy, this invigorating book will prove an essential read for students and scholars interested in social and economic history, the economics of social policy, and Universal Basic Income. Its practical insights will also benefit journalists, think tank staff and policymakers.