Social protection and economic development

James Midgley

Chapter 2 in Social Protection and Development, 2026, pp 35-57 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: This chapter discusses the way social protection has been debated theoretically with reference to economic development. While the literature on social protection has increased rapidly, it is largely focused on social protection's humanitarian contribution and reflects a theoretical approach based on altruism and rights. Neoliberals reject this interpretation, claiming that social protection harms the economy and should be constrained. Their argument is examined but rejected on both theoretical and empirical grounds. Instead, social protection should be closely linked to development since it stimulates economic growth, promotes welfare, and fosters equity. The theoretical basis for this contention is examined, and it is argued that welfare developmentalism offers a useful normative as well as comprehensive framework for social protection's role in development. The chapter concludes by introducing the next four chapters, which focus on how this can be achieved.

Keywords: Theory; Humanitarianism; Rights; Altruism; Neoliberalism; Welfare developmentalism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035308187
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