Intergenerational Conflict or Solidarity in Hong Kong? A Survey of Public Attitudes Toward Social Spending

Alfred M Wu,Kee-Lee Chou

doi:10.1007/s11205-021-02607-9

Abstract

This study aims to investigate age-related differences in social spending preference in an Asian context, drawing on a random survey of more than 1000 adults in Hong Kong in 2013. Contrary to popular belief, older adults in Hong Kong hold a negative view toward welfare spending, especially when it is directed toward the poor population. In contrast, descriptive statistics reveal that younger people tend to support increased spending on welfare assistance. The findings in this study provide evidence that reciprocity and solidarity in intergenerational relationships are present in Hong Kong. This demonstrates the nature of shifting social values held by different generations in a dynamic and demographically pressured Asian context. Amidst rising intergenerational conflict in different contexts in Asia, this study has profound implications for policymaking.

Highlights

Distributive and redistributive policy is at the forefront of policy debates in many developed economies
This study offers some insights into public attitudes toward social spending in Asia and in other countries around the world
The survey included a number of questions on public attitudes toward distributive and redistributive spending in eight social policy areas: welfare, assistance to the poor, public health services, education, assistance to children living in poverty facilitating better access to education, the comprehensive social security assistance scheme, retirement income protection, and public housing

Summary

Introduction

Distributive and redistributive policy is at the forefront of policy debates in many developed economies. Hong Kong is no exception to this, as a rapidly aging population has sparked more debate about whether the government should spend more to protect underserved elderly residents. The negative effects of an aging population are exacerbated by potential external shocks (for example, the economic slowdown of Hong Kong’s most vital economic partner, Mainland China, could create vulnerabilities for the territory). Individual and community resilience is vital to maintaining a well-functioning society. Development policy suggests that economic shocks can be counteracted with social investments into education, healthcare, and other forms of basic social care (Kulig et al 2013).

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Conclusion