Issues in Privatizing Social Security: Report of an Expert Panel of the National Academy of Social Insurance [Hardcover]

Peter A. Diamond (Editor)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 25, 1999

Two types of changes to Social Security have been proposed. One would keep the current defined-benefit structure but build and maintain a larger trust fund, to be partially invested in stocks and corporate bonds. The other would set up individual funded accounts, also to be partially invested in private markets. Both would raise taxes or lower benefits in the near term to increase funds for paying future benefits.This study addresses many important aspects of these politically charged proposals. The questions discussed include: Should Social Security have more advance funding? Should Social Security funds be invested in the stock market? If investments are organized by the government, what independent institutions would shield portfolio decisions and corporate governance from political pressures? If investments are privately organized, what would be the regulatory structure? Finally, should Social Security include individual defined-contribution accounts or stay with traditional defined benefits?The National Academy of Social Insurance is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization whose mission is to conduct research on and enhance public understanding of social insurance, to develop new leaders, and to provide a forum for the exchange of ideas on issues related to social insurance.

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About the Author

This study addresses many important aspects of two politically charged proposals to remedy the Social Security crisis.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 186 pages
• Publisher: The MIT Press (June 25, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0262041774
• ISBN-13: 978-0262041775
• Product Dimensions: 8.3 x 5.7 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.3 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #4,244,645 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)