Federalism and Social Policy ― Patterns of Redistribution in 11 Democracies

Federalism and Social Policy asks a crucial question: Is a strong and egalitarian welfare state compatible with federalism? This volume explores the complex relationship between decentralization and the welfare state to determine whether or not decentralization has negative consequences for welfare. The contributors examine a variety of federalist nations, including Spain, Canada, and the United Kingdom, interrogating key issues: (1) Are there regional welfare states (such as Scotland, Minnesota, etc.)? (2) How much variation is there in the structures of federal welfare states? (3) Is federalism bad for welfare? (4) Does austerity recentralize or decentralize welfare states? By focusing on money and policy instead of law and constitutional politics, this volume shows that federalism shapes regional governments and policies even when decentralization exists.

Scott L. Greer is Professor of Health Management and Policy, Global Public Health, and Political Science at the University of Michigan. Heather Elliott is a Doctoral Candidate and Research Associate in the Departments of Health Management and Policy and Political Science at the University of Michigan.