From the Welfare State to the Welfare Society: A Shift in Paradigm

Abstract

Covid-19 and its aftermath brought home the lesson that in future we just cannot rely on welfare state to deal with sudden outbreaks or natural calamities. We would have to empower individuals in the era of digitalisation for quick support and social solidarity. We are living in a world today where profound socio-economic, political and cultural changes are taking place due to rapid technological changes and globalisation. The 2008 fiscal crisis made it clear that the new liberal philosophy is no longer valid in early 21st century. Unless and until there is solidarity at the societal level, the woes of modern men and women cannot be mitigated effectively. This study seeks to explore the possibility of a shift in paradigm from the welfare state to the welfare society in order to deal with some of the challenges faced by the welfare states in the 21st century. It concludes by highlighting the urgent need for associating participatory society and various stakeholders in the enterprise of welfare in future. The methodology adopted is analytical, comparative and empirical.