Democratization and Welfare State Development in Taiwan / Edition 1

by Christian Aspalter

Overview

This title was first published in 2002: Since the bloodless transition from authoritarian state to fully-fledged democracy, Taiwan has undergone a period of dramatic social and political change. In a political culture increasingly dominated by platforms built on social policy issues, this book provides an intriguing case study of the application of welfare state theories to the real-life social development of Taiwan. Combining a state-of-the-art discussion of the major theoretical schools of thought with in-depth analysis of the electoral promises and programmes in recent Taiwanese elections, the book looks at the direct causal relationship between political competition in democratic elections and welfare state construction. It will prove essential reading for all those interested in the area of comparative social policy, welfare theory, Asian studies and politics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781138731813
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	12/03/2019
Series:	Routledge Revivals
Pages:	184
Product dimensions:	5.88(w) x 8.44(h) x (d)

Table of Contents

Introduction; Welfare state theory; The political context of the welfare state in Taiwan; The development of the Taiwanese welfare state; The impact of the 1997 elections on social policy; The impact of the 1998 elections on social policy; Conclusions; Appendices; References.

Editorial Reviews

’...ground breaking in that while most work on Taiwan's democratization focuses on the transition process, this book sheds light on how democracy has affected public policy in Taiwan...I recommend the book to postgraduate or undergraduate students interested in Taiwan's electoral politics or comparative social welfare.’ The China Quarterly ’This author commands attention, both literally...and figuratively...The details offered are often fascinating...’ Social Policy ’...the strength of this study is in the vast amount of relevant data presented, which will be invaluable to scholars doing comparative studies of social welfare.’ Democratization ’...an important book which should be essential reading for anyone interested in social policy in Taiwan today. The book is thoroughly grounded in a historical perspective and it offers helpful insights into the country, its politics and its social welfare system.’ Social Development Issues ’This book tackles an innovative topic on contemporary Taiwan...the book provides interesting insights into the dynamism of Taiwan’s new democracy.’ The China Journal

From the Publisher

Examining the impact of democratic elections on the construction and extension of the Taiwanese welfare state system, Aspalter (social work and social administration, U. of Hong Kong) asks why the "Asian Tiger" economies are taking the opposite tack of the Western countries in expanding social welfare rights in the face of declining international competitiveness. He finds that the rising tide of social welfare movements and the increase in party competition were the major reason for the welfare state system, overshadowing any economic explanation. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

Booknews