Economics
Path Dependence in Welfare State Regime Typologies
Quick fact
Esping-Andersen's famous typology identifies three welfare regimes—liberal, conservative, social democratic—and historical research shows that once a regime is established, it tends to stay in place for generations due to self-reinforcing feedback.
Why this is interesting
Why do some countries keep generous welfare programs while others cut back? The answer lies not just in politics today but in choices made decades ago.