Patron-Client Relation Reconsidered: Comparing Civil Defense Group in Kanto Earthquake and Jakarta Riots of May 1998

Abstract  Through comparative sociological analysis, this paper discusses the patron-client relation in urban locality groups. The civil defense groups as urban locality groups which emerged during the chaotic situation after the Kanto earthquake in September 1923, and during Jakarta riots in May 1998, are the subjects of comparison. Even though the social background and historical context of the societies in question are different, both incidents share some similarities, in the rumors which accelerated the formation of civil defense group in almost every neighborhood. Further analysis on the formation, membership, and activities of the group reveals that the patron-client relation is not a mere power (vertical) relation, but also a life-cooperation relation.     

Basic parameters of the welfare state

The article attempts to show the limitations and dangers of that trend in contemporary research which sees in the interplay between GNP and social security spending as percent of GNP a predominant parameter of the modern welfare state. Through a criticism of this trend and its implications the problematic nature of the correlation between GNP and social security spending is demonstrated. Simultaneously, analysis of several welfare policies showing, among other things, the influence of ideology and strategy on the degree of welfare, calls into question the theses of convergence in welfare policies in rich countries and of ideology's lack of influence.