16862

SoSe 18: The Welfare State in Germany / Social Market Economy

Anja Gaentzsch

Comments

Subject: This economics seminar will discuss the theoretical foundations, basic elements and principles of the welfare state in Germany. The seminar will compare social protection policies in the areas of unemployment, pension and health insurance and analyze reasons for state intervention. Program: The seminar will discuss arguments from political and economic theory for why the state should provide social safety nets to protect people from falling into poverty and reduce economic inequality. The first weeks of the seminar will lie the theoretical foundations: we will discuss how social market economies compare to other forms of economic organization, why markets sometimes fail and the rationale that social welfare systems built upon. The remaining weeks will examine the theory in the context of the German welfare state. The focus lies on policies related to unemployment insurance, public health care and insurance, and pension insurance. Where applicable, we will compare policies in Germany to those of other European welfare states. Is this course suitable for you? This course is suitable for you if: • you have an interest in the functioning of economic systems and a basic knowledge of economic theory; • you are keen to learn more about the current state and evolution of the German economic system; • you have an interest in social policy and the role of the welfare state. Some prior economic studies are useful, but not mandatory for this course. Workload & Assessment: The course takes place every week (90 minutes) and attendance is mandatory. You should dedicate a further 2-3 hours per week for reading and preparation. You will be expected to contribute to a group presentation, and sit a final graded exam (90 minutes). close

14 Class schedule

Additional appointments

Wed, 2018-05-30 16:00 - 18:00

Sondertermin

Lecturers:
Anja Gaentzsch

Location:
JK 28/130 (Habelschwerdter Allee 45)

Regular appointments

Fri, 14:00 - 16:00 14 Class schedule

Fri, 2018-04-20 14:00 - 16:00

Lecturers:
Anja Gaentzsch