Warum brauchen wir eine Reform des Sozialstaats?

摘要

Experimenting with a novel form of scientific journal publishing, GGøstasta Esping-Andersen answers questions asked by Jens Alber concerning his thesis that European welfare states are in need of thorough reform. As to Esping-Andersen, social policies need to adapt to three structural transformations which imperil the viability of present welfare state arrangements: low fertility and rising longevity; the revolution in women’s roles; and the increased knowledge intensityof economic activity. In order to preserve the solvency of social security schemes and the competitiveness of European economies investments in human capital are required which enhance the productivity of the labour force. Since life chances depend increasingly on skills and abilities acquired in the early years prior to school age, a social investment strategy with extended day care and improved educational opportunities in early childhood is called for. Facilitating the combination of motherhood and employment such an investment strategy for children would not only promote the life chances of children and mothers, but also contribute to effectively safeguarding the solvency of the pension schemes.