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The Dissenter

#1031 Peter Lindert: How Government Social Spending Works

Dec 12, 2024
Peter Lindert, Distinguished Professor Emeritus at UC Davis, dives into the mechanics of government social spending. He discusses the historical rise of social programs, particularly in Northwest Europe, and emphasizes the role of universal education in promoting equality. Lindert critiques the shift in funding towards the elderly and wealthy since 1910, while exploring the implications of welfare dynamics in various political systems. He brings insights on the economic impacts of immigration and the challenges facing retirement and social security amidst an aging population.
53:37

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Quick takeaways

  • Social spending, as outlined in the podcast, plays a crucial role in enhancing productivity and promoting equality by providing necessary resources for individuals.
  • The historical development of social spending reflects the growing political voice of the masses, which has been pivotal for democratic engagement and public service expansion.

Deep dives

Understanding Social Spending

Social spending encompasses government expenditures on public services such as education, health care, pensions, housing, and welfare support for low-income individuals. These are recognized by organizations like the OECD as vital components of social welfare. The podcast highlights that while social spending can also be delivered through private or charitable means, the focus here is primarily on government initiatives. Understanding this distinction sets the stage for evaluating the effectiveness and impact of public expenditures.

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