Conclusion: Parables of Welfare

Abstract

Revisiting the EU-wide tensions of the sovereign debt crisis of 2010, this chapter identifies the religious roots of the demand for fiscal rectitude in ordo-liberal and puritan demands for frugal self-discipline. Yet, beyond the different religious histories across Europe, we identify the impulse towards welfare reformation within Ireland, despite being a late-comer to activation policy. Briefly restating the arguments of the book, we argue that welfare reform seeks to transform individuals by subjecting them to trials and tests, with the market as judge of their worth – based on long-standing theological impulses. However, here we also identify counter tendencies, the urge to alleviate suffering and the refusal of judgement in a charitable view – not just giving support generously, as the word charity also means love, care, understanding, a relationship of respect for individual circumstances and choices. Rebalancing the welfare state simply requires unconditional payments, neither a revolutionary nor reformist logic, just a return to the spirit of generosity.