Work

Between Beveridge and Bismarck: Preferences for redistribution through public pensions

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We examine preferences for redistribution in Germany’s public pension system as well as notions of fairness of the system, using survey and experimental data from citizens and politicians. Our findings reveal a widespread rejection of strict proportionality between contributions and benefits, with strong support for greater redistribution to low earners. Information on inequalities in life expectancy reduces perceived fairness and increases support for redistribution among voters and politically moderate legislators. The study also reveals significant knowledge gaps about the basic features of the existing pension scheme among citizens. We demonstrate that policy-relevant information influences fairness perceptions.

Source: The Journal of the Economics of Ageing

DOI: 10.1016/j.jeoa.2025.100570

Authors: Friedrich Breyer, Christian Breunig, Mark Kapteina, Guido Schwerdt, Maj-Britt Sterba

Institution: University of Konstanz

Language: English

Topic: Social Policy and Reform Studies

Subfield: Political Science and International Relations

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,380