Alternatives to Social Security: An International Inquiry

Few days pass without front page newspaper articles about the disarray in the American social security system and the oncoming crisis of exploding costs and imbalance between workers and retirees. New proposals to address these issues constantly surface from presidential candidates, Congress, and interest groups. Yet, few recognize that in the second half of the twentieth century, there has been a global expansion of social security systems, and there may be lessons to be learned from other societies. This collection of essays is designed to examine the diverse approaches developed in Australia, Britain, Chile, Hong Kong, Kenya, and Singapore. By analyzing different approaches―and different degrees of success―those debating public policy may find alternatives that can be adapted to meet American social needs.

Midgley and Sherraden have drawn together experts on the systems developed in Australia, Britain, Chile, Hong Kong, Kenya, and Singapore; they explore the different approaches―and the different degrees of success―these societies have confronted. An international perspective can enhance understanding of the problems and offer a sound basis for evaluating policy proposals that may reform the social security system. Scholars, researchers, policymakers, and the reading public will find this a stimulating collection. As Senator John Breaux notes, This book is essential reading for anyone serious about addressing the inevitable problems that will face the U.S. Social Security system.

JAMES MIDGLEY is Harry and Riva Specht Professor of Public Social Services and Dean of the School of Social Welfare at the University of California at Berkeley.

MICHAEL SHERRADEN is the Benjamin E. Youngdahl Professor of Social Development at Washington University in St. Louis.

Both have written extensively on social policy issues.