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Answer:
The statement "The privatization of social security is desirable if the rate of return on savings r is larger than the growth rate of the economy g" is:
C: Uncertain
Explanation:
Whether privatizing social security is desirable depends on several factors beyond just the comparison of the rate of return on savings r and the growth rate of the economy g. While a higher rate of return on savings might suggest potential for better individual financial outcomes, there are other critical considerations, such as:
1. Risk and Security: Private savings are subject to market risks and fluctuations, whereas traditional social security provides a more stable and predictable source of retirement income.
2. Distributional Effects: Social security often has redistributive elements, benefiting lower-income individuals more proportionately. Privatization may reduce these redistributive benefits.
3. Administrative Costs: Managing private accounts can incur higher administrative costs compared to a public social security system.
4. Behavioral Factors: Individuals might not always make optimal investment decisions, which could lead to poorer outcomes compared to the guaranteed benefits from social security.
5. Economic Stability: The stability and predictability of social security can contribute to overall economic stability, especially for vulnerable populations.
6. Transition Costs: Moving from a public to a private system involves significant transition costs, including how current benefits are funded during the transition.
Conclusion:
The desirability of privatizing social security cannot be determined solely by comparing r and g. It is a complex decision that involves considering various economic, social, and behavioral factors. Thus, the statement is uncertain.