In Chapters two and three we investigated risk perception and the willingness to share risks using data from surveys among the Dutch population. The analysis of these survey data revealed some surprising facts. First, we learned that, contrary to theoretical expectations, welfare state support among the Dutch population is still high. However, this does not imply that they oppose welfare state reform. The norm of obligating reciprocity is strongly supported and therefore welfare state reform that reinforces this form of obligating reciprocity is also supported. Thirdly, and once again contrary to theoretical expectations, we discovered that individualisation does not necessarily undermine welfare state support. Individualisation not only strengthens the normative ideals of freedom and self-actualisation, it also makes people more aware of their vulnerability. It is this awareness of vulnerability that feeds welfare state support.

In this chapter, we once again investigate risk perception and the willingness to share risks in relation to processes of individualisation. In this chapter, we focus on the most important process of individualisation in relation to social security: the increase of labour flexibility. We make a distinction between different forms of labour flexibilisation and investigate how these forms of flexibilisation affect support for social security among the workers concerned. As in Chapter three, our conclusion is that some forms of labour flexibilisation do not undermine, but rather fuel support for social security. Again, it is an awareness of vulnerability, this time vulnerability in a more flexible labour market, that explains this.

Introduction

In recent decades, certain labour market developments have occurred in most industrialised western countries, such as a growing labour market participation of women and a concentration of the workforce in serviceoriented sectors. Against a background of rapid technological change and ongoing economic interdependence, the flexibilisation of labour markets has perhaps been one of the most fundamental changes to affect work and employment conditions in western economies (Kalleberg 2003; 2001; 2000). Likewise, flexibilisation of the labour market may have altered the risks people encounter, ultimately leading to an adaptation of social welfare services and provisions (Kemshall 2002). Views on the consequences of increasing labour market flexibility have been rather diverse up until now. Reflecting on this new flexible economy, some expect greater labour flexibility to lead to a decline in workers’ dedication levels (Sennett 2006). Others, meanwhile, point to the joys and meaningfulness of contemporary work (De Botton 2009).