The American Welfare State in Comparative Perspective

Will examine the development of social policy in the United States and the political conflicts that drive contemporary debates. We begin by identifying the distinctive features of American public policy, limited spending on the poor and the use of tax expenditures to achieve social goals. How the politics of race, immigration, gender, and federalism have shaped American approaches to social welfare. We will explore the role of public opinion, interest groups, and partisan polarization in shaping the agenda and outcome of reform efforts. Topics include diverse forms of public assistance, employment policy, health care, and social security.