Federation Economics Made Simple

Star Trek notoriously presents an unbelievably utopian economy that appears to be a techno-socialist paradise. There are a number of economic models which might theoretically explain how the Federation economy actually works, but that’s probably far to granular for a roleplaying game.

To keep it simple, we’ll say that the Federation is the fabled and oxymoronic “post-scarcity” dialectical materialist economy that functions on a libertarian socialist model similar to participatory economics. In layman’s terms: the needs of everyone are met, people are no longer obsessed with things, and the acquisition of wealth is no longer a driving force in people’s lives.

Information for Characters

• Monetary Conversion: $1 GURPS = 1 Federation Credit
• Starting Wealth: $50,000

Economic Level

To reflect the level of materialism apparent in Federation society, the economic level will be adjusted to that of a TL10 society. Though the Federation is a TL12 society technologically, economic matters such as starting wealth or other calculations should be based on TL10.

Money

The Federation operates a monetary system in order to facilitate the interpersonal and interplanetary exchange of goods. This system is primarily computerized but some planets may employ actual coinage. Money is used to purchased goods and services in excess to whatever monthly allowances and other benefits provided by the Federation or planetary governments.

Jobs

Every Federation citizen is guaranteed a basic minimum income ($1120 monthly), but most choose to work and contribute to society. GURPS Starting Wealth represents an amount paid out to each Federation citizen upon reaching majority age. All jobs have associated Status levels, but clearly the concepts of “poor” and “struggling” are relative in a society where the basic needs are provided. The higher wealth levels associated with higher Status are considered by most people “perks” of these jobs, as what people tend really to pursue is the status and not the pay.

Equipment

The Federation is a TL12 CR4 society. LC3 items are regulated and require licensing. LC2 items are restricted to certain users and prohibited to the general public. LC1 items are restricted to the use of Starfleet, but may not be claimed as personal gear by Starfleet personnel. LC0 items are banned within Federation territory. All superscience-designated technology is considered LC2.