Reflexive modernization and social solidarity notes on the future of the modern welfare state

This article analyses the consequences of reflexive modernization as a future stage in the process of modernization for social solidarity and the modern welfare state. The author takes a Durkheimian perspective on social solidarity as his point of departure. The basic idea of this perspective is that close-knit social structures can limit solidarity and stimulate exclusion and that the rise of more gesellschaftliche social relations can create opportunities for solidarity. Giddens' approach to the consequences of reflexive modernization and Durkheim's perspective on the evolution of social solidarity are compared and criticized, The author supplements their approach with a policy-centered approach based on the works of Theda Skocpol. Skocpol views the possibilities and extent of social solidarity (as expressed in the range of social policies) as determined by the characteristics of the polity, i.e. the political, legal and administrative structure of the state. This implies that the consequences of reflexive modernization depend on specific characteristics of welfare states, Using this polity-centered approach, the author tries to expand and specify Giddens' ideas about the future of the welfare state under the conditions of reflexive modernization.