In his latest book, published decades into an established career of scholarly research and political consulting, Edward D. Berkowitz distinguishes himself from other historians of social policy by refusing the role of social critic. Making Social Policy in America purports to choose “historical contingencies and institutional realities” over “grand theories of public policy formation” (2). Berkowitz rejects social policy historians’ focus on present-day concerns—a broken health care system, racism, inequality—in their interpretations of policy history. It's not just political ideology that shapes policy history, Berkowitz wants to show. Serendipity and, especially, administrative structures also played a huge part.
Making Social Policy in America tells “stories in detail” about how three key welfare programs—Social Security Disability Insurance, Medicare, and Aid to Families with Dependent Children—came into existence and developed over time (1). Berkowitz argues that during the legislative process, social policy is “malleable” and contingency paramount. Once a law is passed,...
