PSCI255 Midterm: Discussion & Review 1
Document Summary
Argues that welfare state is generous because there are more needs/social protective functions required: driven by need. Economic development leads to a generous welfare state (affluence leads to more social vulnerability: family size. Large families in rural areas due to the increased need for labour in farms. Affluent societies must pay for education, etc. of children, resulting in lower family sizes. Smaller family size means less people to care for you as you age and therefore a greater need for pensions: healthcare and health status. Longer life expectancy means more chronic diseases and a greater need for health benefits for the elderly. Each person is worth more, economically, because they have a higher quality of life than in poor countries and are thus willing to pay for better health. Sudden medical shocks are more impactful in families and thus health insurance is more necessary: specialized skills.