Routledge Democratization and Welfare State Development in Taiwan (Routledge Revivals)

This title was first published in 2002: Since the bloodless transition from authoritarian state to fully-fledged democracy, Taiwan has undergone a period of dramatic social and political change. In a political culture increasingly dominated by platforms built on social policy issues, this book provides an intriguing case study of the application of welfare state theories to the real-life social development of Taiwan. Combining a state-of-the-art discussion of the major theoretical schools of thought with in-depth analysis of the electoral promises and programmes in recent Taiwanese elections, the book looks at the direct causal relationship between political competition in democratic elections and welfare state construction. It will prove essential reading for all those interested in the area of comparative social policy, welfare theory, Asian studies and politics. Review ’...ground breaking in that while most work on Taiwan's democratization focuses on the transition process, this book sheds light on how democracy has affected public policy in Taiwan...I recommend the book to postgraduate or undergraduate students interested in Taiwan's electoral politics or comparative social welfare.’ The China Quarterly ’This author commands attention, both literally...and figuratively...The details offered are often fascinating...’ Social Policy ’...the strength of this study is in the vast amount of relevant data presented, which will be invaluable to scholars doing comparative studies of social welfare.’ Democratization ’...an important book which should be essential reading for anyone interested in social policy in Taiwan today. The book is thoroughly grounded in a historical perspective and it offers helpful insights into the country, its politics and its social welfare system.’ Social Development Issues ’This book tackles an innovative topic on contemporary Taiwan...the book provides interesting insights into the dynamism of Taiwan’s new democracy.’ The China Journal About the Author Christian Aspalter