S/P/76. What factors explain the significant variations in welfare state regimes across countries?

The paper looks to explain why there are significant variations between welfare states in developed countries. The debate largely centres on whether differences can be attributed to empirical ideas, such as the demographic structure or levels of economic growth, or ideas closely related to the political culture and identities within the country. On the basis of the evidence examined, this essay argues that a far stronger case can made for the cultural explanation, as there are many issues that can be taken with the empirical data provided to back up the opposing argument. There is also discussion of the difficulties associated with ‘measuring’ welfare states.