Professor Sir John Hills challenges the prevalent narrative that the welfare state disproportionately benefits a lazy underclass at the expense of hardworking taxpayers. He presents a nuanced analysis showing that, over the course of their lives, most people in the UK receive benefits from the welfare state, particularly during key life stages such as childhood, retirement, and periods of unemployment. Hills emphasizes that the welfare system functions as a generational contract, where individuals contribute during their working years and draw support when needed, rather than a dichotomy of “strivers” versus “scroungers.”
The book also critiques the political rhetoric that stigmatizes welfare recipients, arguing that such narratives overlook the complexities of social mobility and the impact of economic policies. Hills advocates for a more informed and compassionate approach to social policy, one that recognizes the shared risks and benefits within society. His work remains a significant contribution to discussions on social justice and the future of the welfare state.