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Trust and the Welfare State: the Twin Peaks Curve

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  • Yann Algan
  • Pierre Cahuc
  • Marc Sangnier

Abstract

We show the existence of a twin peaks relation between trust and the size of the welfare state that stems from two opposing forces. Uncivic people support large welfare states because they expect to benefit from them without bearing their costs. But civic individuals support generous benefits and high taxes only when they are surrounded by trustworthy individuals. We provide empirical evidence for these behaviors and this twin peaks relation in the OECD countries.
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Suggested Citation

  • Yann Algan & Pierre Cahuc & Marc Sangnier, 2016. "Trust and the Welfare State: the Twin Peaks Curve," Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 126(593), pages 861-883, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:econjl:v:126:y:2016:i:593:p:861-883
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    File URL: http://hdl.handle.net/10.1111/ecoj.2016.126.issue-593
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    JEL classification:

    • H1 - Public Economics - - Structure and Scope of Government
    • Z1 - Other Special Topics - - Cultural Economics

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