Social Security Policy in a Changing Environment

Social Security Policy in a Changing Environment analyzes the changing economic and demographic environment in which social insurance programs that benefit elderly households will operate. It also explores how these ongoing trends will affect future beneficiaries, under both the current social security program and potential reform options. In this volume, an esteemed group of economists probes the challenge posed to Social Security by an aging population. The researchers examine trends in private sector retirement saving and health care costs, as well as the uncertain nature of future demographic, economic, and social trends—including marriage and divorce rates and female participation in the labor force. Recognizing the ambiguity of the environment in which the Social Security system must operate and evolve, this landmark book explores factors that policymakers must consider in designing policies that are resilient enough to survive in an economically and demographically uncertain society.

Jeffrey R. Brown is the William G. Karnes Professor in the Department of Finance and director of the Center for Business and Public Policy in the College of Business at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He also serves as associate director of the NBER Retirement Research Center.

Jeffrey B. Liebman is Malcolm Wiener Professor of Public Policy at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, and a research associate of the NBER.

David A. Wise is the John F. Stambaugh Professor of Political Economy at the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, and director of the programs on aging and health care at the NBER.