Priorities Quote by Tony Judt
““The priorities of the traditional state were defense, public order, the prevention of epidemics and the aversion of mass discontent. But following World War II, and peaking around 1980, social expenditure became the main budgetary responsibility for modern states.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Postwar: A History of Europe Since 1945, 2005
After WWII, states shifted focus from security to welfare, making social spending the primary budget duty.
In simple terms: Governments now prioritize social welfare over defense.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the trade‑offs in public budgeting.
Themes
government
economics
history
Mood
analytical
historical
Type
explanatory
critical
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- public finance
- social services
Key Concepts
Welfare state
budgetary priorities
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives a state’s budget choices?
- How does welfare spending affect democracy?
A Different Perspective
Historical context may vary by region.
![“Lieux de memoire . . . 'exist because there are no longer any milieux de memoire , settings in which memory is a real part of everyday experience.' And what are lieux de memoire ? [They] are . . . vestiges . . . the rituals of a ritual-less society.” quote by Tony Judt](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e56/tony-judt-1730_memory_lieux-de-memoire-exist-because-there-are_21586.jpg)
