The Relevance of the Modern Welfare State

"The term 'welfare state' has such a pleasing sound that it has become a bit like motherhood or apple pie" (Disney, 2002:viii). As Helen Disney implies in this statement the ideas of the welfare state are very appealing to individuals around the world. The need to help the sick, elderly, disabled and unemployed are top priorities to citizens who want a moral government. This moral government is one that cares for its citizens and that …

…and the needy. The world is changing and its course is in the reverse. A regression to the ways of the 19th century are dominant. Thus the welfare state will be hidden away until great tragedy occurs again. Hence, the early 20th century form of welfare is irrelevant in modern day society. References Bonoli, B, George, V, & Taylor-Gooby, P. 2000. European Welfare Futures. Oxford. Blackwell Publishers Ltd. Disney, H, 2002. Europe's Welfare Burden. London. Civitas