The Marketization of Social Security [Hardcover]

The Marketization of Social Security edited by John Dixon and Mark Hyde provides the reader with a comparative look at social security programs in different countries. Allowing readers to have an international perspective of social security programs. It highlights Chile, Brazil, Britain, New Zealand, Canada (specifically Ontario), Zimbabwe, and the United States. Quite a mix of countries for one to swallow in the mere 219 pages, but don't sweat it. The reading is very interesting and captures the reader's interest in a short time. An international comparison of social security systems is a great way to learn about in where specific social security programs thrive.
The title of this book can be intimidating to the reader, if they do not have a working knowledge of business jargon. After cracking the seam of the book, the first two chapters give the reader enough background information to allow them to understand the book. The following chapters provide examples of marketization in the various countries, each shedding light on a different aspect of the issue. These chapters clear up any shadows that the reader may have surrounding the marketization of social security. There is some overlapping in the issues discussed in the chapters, but each one also has a unique aspect from the country that contributes to the readers growing knowledge on various social security programs. The overlapping allows the readers to compare and contrast how the government has adapted the various programs to fit the specific needs of the recipients.
This book allows the reader to gain a working knowledge and formulate an educated opinion on the current social security debate occurring the in the United States. By looking closely at these highlighted countries one is able to see what works and does not work in specific countries. It also discusses the factors that must be in place for marketization to be successful. Readers of this book will learn about social security systems in other countries and how they have evolved. The Marketization of Social Security is worth a read just for the first two chapters. They will provide a quick overview of the underlying reasons for social security programs. After reading the complete work, the reader will come away with an insight into the different methods used by other countries. Thus, improving their understanding of the social security system currently in place in the United States. It is a quick read that is worth the time put into. This book rewards the time spent reading its contents.