This paper sets out the economic analytics of pensions. After introductory discussion, successive sections consider the effects of different pension arrangements on labor markets, on national savings and growth, and on the distribution of burdens and benefits. These are controversial and...

Many countries face increasing fiscal problems financing pensions in the face of population aging. There is controversy about the underlying economic theory, about the extent of the problem, and about the best mix of policies to protect old-age security. This paper establishes the areas of...

This essay describes the current debate on reforming Social Security in the US, along with a brief description of how the program works. Along the way it comments on the quality of some reform proposals as well as their political standing. Where issues are similar, some inferences are drawn for...