Introduction

Austerity is a 17th century noun, which has new-found popularity. It was the most researched term of 2010. It has three layers of definitions. In no case is it a pleasant term. In the first instance it refers to severity or plainness, severity of discipline, regime, expression, or design. In the second layer of meaning it is an economy measure: a saving, economy, or act of self-denial, especially in respect of something regarded as a luxury. It invokes the idea of self-flagellation at the personal level. Still, not forgetting about the notion of self-denial, we will be concerned mostly with the third layer of meaning. Austerity is enforced thrift: thrift imposed as government policy, with restricted access to or availability of consumer goods. With regard to public policy, it has a broader meaning with broader implications, the outcomes including poverty and ill-health. In a period of slow recovery from the Great Recession, should we really be worried about austerity…