FREE IGNOU MHI-02 Solved QUESTION Paper DECEMBER 2022

2. Welfare State: English and Japanese Comparisons: A welfare state is a system in which the government plays a significant role in providing social services and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. The English and Japanese Welfare States differ in their historical development, scope, and approach.

The English Welfare State, established after World War II, aimed to address social inequalities and provide a safety net for citizens through services like healthcare, education, and unemployment benefits. The National Health Service (NHS) exemplifies this commitment to providing healthcare to all citizens, regardless of their financial status.

In contrast, the Japanese Welfare State has a stronger emphasis on familial and community support. Traditional Japanese values of strong family ties and community cohesion led to a system where social welfare was often provided by family members and local communities. However, as Japan modernized and faced demographic challenges, the government expanded its welfare programs to include healthcare, pensions, and unemployment benefits.