In this paper, we develop a theory of individual choice called melioration, which implies that choices distributed over a period of time may be reliably and predictably suboptimal, in terms of the person's own preferences. Consider some typical examples of distributed choices: the expenditure...

A guaranteed income (GI) that replaces the welfare state is not currently on the political agenda, but it offers the possibility for a grand compromise that could attract a majority political coalition. Any large-scale GI cannot be economically feasible in addition to current welfare programmes....

After describing the development and dimensions of the American welfare system, this paper explores the relationship of illegitimacy to welfare. Alternative measures of illegitimacy are discussed. The relationship of the welfare package and the illegitimacy ratio is examined over time and across...