Irrespective of the society we live in, be it liberal, capitalist, or socialist, the State is the
dominant political institution standing above all other institutions, which influences politics,
economy, culture, and almost all aspects of contemporary society. Indeed, it would not be an
exaggeration to say that we begin and end our lives within the confines and jurisdiction of the
State. It is so ubiquitous that perhaps no other institution impacts our lives in a way the State
does. Aristotle, who lived in the ancient Greek city-state of Athens asserted that a man who
can live without a State is either a beast or a God.
he welfare state is a central concept in social policy literature,
encompassing various definitions and functions. It's not simply about
economic well-being but involves state intervention, the establishment of
social rights, citizenship, and ideological influences.
Contrary to being solely focused on economic growth and development,
the welfare state incorporates elements of democracy, the rule of law,
freedom, happiness, well-being, and equality. These factors are essential
in welfare indicators.
While terms like social state, social welfare state, and welfare state are
often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings. The welfare
state is comprehensive and difficult to achieve, involving various
components. Economic well-being is a significant function, but it's not
enough. If the welfare state fails to address social progress and
inequalities persist, it can lead to social conflicts.
Each term has wide-ranging definitions, approaches, and theories.
However, this study focuses on conceptual approaches rather than
delving into deep theoretical information.
The field of welfare state analysis is crucial in policy analysis and
comparative political economy, encompassing determinants, actors,
institutions, decision-making procedures, and effects of social policy.
Despite over 40 years of research, it remains one of the most dynamic
and rich areas theoretically and methodologically.
Social policy redistributes material resources and safeguards against
social risks through regulating the economy, redistributing goods, and
providing state support services. These include tax and transfer systems,
regulations like minimum wages, and state services such as healthcare
and childcare.
The central aspect is the distribution and redistribution of resources to
insure against social risks. Countries make political decisions about which
risks to address, such as income loss due to parenthood, which may justify
state intervention. Traditional risks include old age, sickness, disability,
and unemployment, often focused on the male industrial worker as the
breadwinner.
Changes in family structures and labor markets since the 1970s have
introduced new social risks, like long-term unemployment and caretaking
duties. Modern welfare states respond with measures like reintegration
programs and childcare services.
Welfare states vary significantly in design across countries and time.
Broadly, they can be categorized into four types:
1. Egalitarian-universalist welfare states (e.g., Scandinavia)
combine comprehensive benefits with substantial vertical
redistribution.
2. Generous insurance systems (e.g., continental Europe) offer
comprehensive benefits but stratify them based on contributions
and employment.
3. Insurance-based welfare states (e.g., Southern European
countries) structure benefits according to the insurance principle.
4. Anglo-Saxon welfare states are more egalitarian and
redistributive but offer benefits at a low level.
Theory Many scholars argue that the terminology known as welfare state has no clear definition or
meaning.17 But as the world evolves, so does the role of the welfare state.
The modern welfare state can be defined as the political or governmental state assuming
responsibility of the social and economic welfare of its citizens
The welfare state acts as an agent for the individuals in a state. It reflects the need of citizens and it
represents their interest, which is to survive. Numerous efforts to decrease the welfare state (such as
a reduction in the percentage of the GDP spent on social expenditures) have failed because of
unwavering support of social programs. These programs have been beneficial to citizens and have
become institutionalized
1. Capitalist type of state: The capitalist state differs from pre-
capitalist or non-capitalist forms and predatory regimes. It has form-
determined strategic selectivity, affecting state intervention.
Democratic institutions, while common, are not inherent to the
capitalist state and developed unevenly.
2. Strategic-relational approach to the state: The state is viewed
as a social relation, reflecting the prevailing balance of forces
mediated through its apparatus. State power involves a differential
impact on various political forces, depending on their access to
state capacities.
3. Complexity of state power: State power is not solely exercised by
state managers but is embedded in wider social relations. Formal
attribution of responsibility to state officials often masks the
complex interplay of social forces. Charismatic figures simplify
political realities, hiding the complex practices behind the scenes.
