Generational Equity, Generational Interdependence, and the Framing of the Debate Over Social Security Reform

Authors

John B. Williamson, Boston College
Tay K. McNamara, Boston College
Stephanie A. Howling, Boston College

Abstract

This article analyzes the differences between the generational equity and generational interdependence conceptual packages used to frame arguments in the debate over policies such as Social Security reform. It begins with a history of the generational equity debate. This is followed by an analysis of the assumptions, values, and beliefs that inform each of these two ideological frames. It presents an analysis of why the generational equity frame has dominated the debate and highlights some of the limitations of this perspective.

Recommended Citation

Williamson, John B.; McNamara, Tay K.; and Howling, Stephanie A. (2003) "Generational Equity, Generational Interdependence, and the Framing of the Debate Over Social Security Reform," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 30: Iss. 3, Article 2.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.2914
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol30/iss3/2