James Midgley

This insightful book examines the crucial role of social protection in development, with a particular focus on the Global South. Drawing on extensive empirical research and theoretical frameworks, internationally recognized social development scholar, James Midgley counters neoliberal economic arguments that claim social protection schemes negatively impact development. Instead, he demonstrates how they stimulate economic growth, maximize welfare and foster egalitarian ideals. Midgley explores key historical contexts, tracing how the field of development has expanded to address issues of inequality, gender, popular political participation and ecological sustainability. He highlights the ways in which social protection can advance these goals, while noting the significant challenges and obstacles to their implementation, such as resource scarcity, inadequate coverage and limited administrative capacity. Chapters examine the impact of social protection on economic stability, outlining how these programs boost consumption, mobilise investments and support productive work. Midgley argues for the prioritisation of social protection strategies, advocating for their integration into government development policies. Social Protection and Development is a valuable resource for scholars and students of development, social and public policy, economics and social work. It is also relevant to those working in international development agencies and intergovernmental aid programs where social protection is increasingly essential.

Inequality is back on the academic and political agenda. This book considers the extent and impact of social protection - including social assistance, social insurance, universal allowances and mandates - on inequality. The author illustrates how effectively designed and implemented forms of social protection can make significant contributions to reducing inequalities, promoting egalitarian ideals and achieving social justice. Critical and incisive, this book is essential reading for students and academics studying social protection and inequality. It will also be of interest to scholars in social policy, international social welfare and development studies, as well as practitioners and professionals in government and international agencies.

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.

Social security systems throughout the world are faced with unprecedented challenges in response to growing criticisms about unacceptable expenditures for government programs and questions about the appropriate role of government in providing social protection through social insurance and social assistance programs. The challenges are also a result of dramatic demographic, social, and cultural changes around the world. A variety of radical and modest reform measures are currently being discussed which have the potential of significantly impacting the means of income and health care for the elderly, children, and families. This book examines these challenges from the perspective of local analysts in both industrial and economically developing nations. The purpose of the analysis is to promote a better understanding of the integral role that social security plays in the social and economic development of diverse societies. The chapters examine the wide range of challenges to social security in Britain, Egypt and Turkey, the Netherlands, Poland, the United States, Uruguay, and Zimbabwe. An overview of the most prevalent issues are discussed, including fiscal viability, economic development, equity, administration, public confidence, and the role of social security as the primary government instrument for social protection against the loss of income and health. Essential reading for students and researchers in social policy, gerontology, and comparative social welfare.