MORAL ATROPHY IN THE WELFARE-STATE

The welfare state is often accused of being counterproductive: as the scope of public responsibility expands, private morality (especially a ltruism and benevolence) atrophies. This essay surveys psychological f indings for evidence, which turns out to be broadly consistent with ei ther of two models of moral development, each bearing distinct policy implications. The model of 'morally keeping in practice' that is impli cit in the term 'moral atrophy' suggests the need for frequent opportu nities to exercise moral skills, which would seem inconsistent with th e welfare state. Alternatively, the model of moral character-building favoured by both philosophers and ordinary discourse would require onl y occasional reminders of one's moral principles. On this model, benev olence could usefully supplement the welfare state.