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Policy Punctuations in Mature Welfare States

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  • Jensen, Carsten

Abstract

In mainstream welfare state theory the new institutional approach has explained incremental changes as institutions gradually adjust at the margin. However, big and sudden changes remain outside the scope of this theory. The article uses the theory of punctuated equilibrium to argue that politics is characterized by long periods of stability followed by dramatic bursts of change. The theory is tested on policy data from 18 Western countries, 1971–2002. It confirms that the degree of non-incrementalism depends partly on the institutional friction in a country and partly on the type of welfare programme in question.

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  • Jensen, Carsten, 2009. "Policy Punctuations in Mature Welfare States," Journal of Public Policy, Cambridge University Press, vol. 29(3), pages 287-303, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:jnlpup:v:29:y:2009:i:03:p:287-303_99
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    Cited by:

    1. Marie H. Martin & Meg Streams, 2015. "Punctuated Equilibrium Theory: An Empirical Investigation of Its Relevance for Global Health Expenditure," Public Budgeting & Finance, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 35(1), pages 73-94, March.
    2. Magnus Lundgren & Theresa Squatrito & Jonas Tallberg, 2018. "Stability and change in international policy-making: A punctuated equilibrium approach," The Review of International Organizations, Springer, vol. 13(4), pages 547-572, December.

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