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The Emergence of the Welfare State Through Social Engineering

Author

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  • Claes Berg

    (Retired from Sveriges Riksbank)

Abstract

Gunnar and Alva Myrdal played a crucial role in shaping the Swedish welfare state in the 1930s. Their book Crises in the Population Question addressed the societal issue of declining birth rates and proposed concrete social reforms. Gunnar Myrdal led government investigations to support and implement these reforms and was elected to parliament. The Myrdals’ ideas influenced various welfare reforms, emphasizing general benefits over poor relief. Their proposals included improved housing, maternal care, child health services, general child allowances, and nursery schools to support families. However, their proposals faced modifications and rejections, notably by Social Minister Gustav Möller, who preferred cash benefits over the Myrdals’ in-kind support. The Myrdals’ work highlighted tensions between state intervention and individual autonomy and laid the groundwork for the Swedish welfare state’s expansion and its recognition as a model of balancing capitalism and socialism.

Suggested Citation

  • Claes Berg, 2025. "The Emergence of the Welfare State Through Social Engineering," Springer Studies in the History of Economic Thought,, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:spshcp:978-3-031-75075-5_5
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-75075-5_5
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