Social Democracy in Neoliberal Times: The Left and Economic Policy Since 1980

Never has the Left held power in so many advanced economies—yet this has had little effect on economic policy.

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the successes and failures of governments in Europe and Australia as they sought to pursue distinctive policy paths amid a neoliberal backlash. It examines how state intervention, welfare provisions, and commitments to full employment were challenged, modified, or maintained, offering critical insights into the interaction between political ideology and economic constraints.

Key Features:

• Explores the impact of left-wing governments on economic policy in advanced economies.
• Analyzes responses to neoliberal pressures on the welfare state and labor markets.
• Highlights case studies from Europe and Australia for comparative understanding.
• Provides evidence-based evaluation of policy successes, limitations, and unintended consequences.

This book is essential reading for economists, political scientists, policymakers, and anyone interested in the intersection of politics and economic policy in contemporary democracies