Soviet Social Policy in Comparative Perspective

Abstract

A comparative analysis of Soviet social policy must consistently take account of the fact that the very term "social policy" has at least a slightly different meaning in every country that admits to having such a policy. Not surprisingly, greater distinctions are to be found between socialist and market economies than among countries adhering to similar political views. Furthermore, it is difficult to measure the extent, fairness, and effectiveness of social programs against various backgrounds of public and private resources, employment practices, taxation methods, and government accounting pro cedures. This study illustrates ways in which these factors account for problems in evaluating Soviet programs in areas of social policy. At the same time, discrepancies in theory and practice are examined in practical detail to provide information on the real—or experienced-value of the policies adopted in different countries.