THE CASE FOR THE PRIVATIZATION OF SOCIAL-WELFARE - 3 DECADES OF PUBLIC-OPINION EVIDENCE FROM GREAT-BRITAIN AND THE UNITED-STATES

In the last two decades, the conservative critique of the welfare stat e has been very strong. This study examines the claim of neoconservati ves that there is a mass repudiation of the welfare state in the advan ced industrial countries. Empirical opinion survey findings from Great Britain and the United States between 1960 and 1990 are examined. Con trary to the radical right rhetoric, there is popular support for soci al programs in both countries. Evidence also points to sizeable suppor t for a mixed economy of welfare. Three explanations are put forward t o account for enduring public support for social programs: the prevale nce of social rights, support from the poor and middle class and the l imitations of markets.