The Left and the welfare state: a critical analysis
Abstract
This paper takes to task two theses which are often canvassed on the left; firstly that the welfare state is indefensible and secondly that it is irrever sible and cannot be undone. It is argued that socialists and fentinists must defend the principle of collective provision embodied in the welfare state sible and cannot be undone. It is argued that socialists and fentinists must defend the principale of collective provision embodied in the welfare state attacked as overoptimistic and akistorical. It is suggested that the social democratic welfare state may be feasibly formed into a warfare, welfare state underpinning permanent mass unemployment and poverty.