The Birth of a Transfer Society

by Terry L. Anderson

The growth of transfers from miniscule to major proportion of the gross national product has resulted in a decreasing productivity, increasing allocation of resources in obtaining and maintaining transfers, as well as increasing the social tension over the legitimacy and allocation of transfers. The authors of this study trace the historical reasons for the rise of transfers, most specifically in the United States. They offer a detailed analysis of the impact of the entire constitution and its interpretation on economic activity. In their provocative conclusion they argue against the willing surrender of transfer privileges and offer in solution the suggestion that new constitutional provisions be drafted to limit the power of government to effect transfers and reestablish our economic health. For students of Economic History, Public Policy and American Government. Originally published in 1980 by the Hoover Institution Press.

114 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1980

About the author

Terry Lee Anderson

Reviews

[Grace Dittrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for a class entitled “American Political Systems” and it was a great work to have included. After dissecting founding documents, this was a succinct piece that told the story of how a more ideal government fell apart over the less than 200 years since its founding.
Having a background in economic principles greatly increases the returns to this book, but I think it would be approachable for someone with a basic understanding of the ideas.