In this book Peter Diamond analyzes social security as a particular example of optimal taxation theory. Assuming a world of incomplete markets and asymmetric information, he uses a variety of simple models to illuminate the economic forces that bear on specific social security policy issues. The...

Even as life expectancy in many countries has continued to increase, social security and similar government programs can provide strong incentives for workers to leave the labor force when they reach the age of eligibility for benefits. Disability insurance programs can also play a significant...

Intro -- Contents -- Acknowledgments -- Introduction - Courtney Coile, Kevin Milligan, and David A. Wise -- 1. Disability Insurance Incentives and the Retirement Decision: Evidence from the United States - Courtney Coile -- 2. Effect of Pensions and Disability Benefits on Retirement in the...

"This volume draws from the International Social Security project, which commenced more than two decades ago and which compares the social security and retirement experience in twelve developed countries. Both men and women are remaining longer in the workforce and this volume documents trends...