Greco L. (2006).

Optimal Redistribution With Productive Social Services. Marco Fanno Working Paper n. 26-2006.

Abstract:

We analyze the optimality of alternative mechanisms of public provision of private goods affecting the productive capacity of households (e.g. education, health-care) rather than directly their welfare. Opting out mechanisms – often considered a tool to focus social expenditure – are proven to be welfare improving under the assumption that the provided good is not a substitute of households’ exogenous productive capacity (say, inherited wealth). Conversely, when publicly provided goods are substitute of inherited productive capacity, topping up mechanisms prove more efficient.