This theoretically sophisticated and empirically rich book is an important contribution to the policy making literature, and will help readers understand why things change and why they stay the same. Choice A lively and readable synthesis of much of the vast social scientific and historical literature on the contemporary American welfare state. It is also an invaluable primer on recent developments in Medicare, welfare, and pension policy. Perspectives on Politics
In The Politics of Policy Change Daniel Béland and Alex Waddan provide an insightful analysis of the major reforms enacted in the past two decades in the United States—Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicare, and Social Security. They describe the politics of policy reform in a lively and readable fashion and convincingly demonstrate why government is necessary to protect the well-being of all citizens.