Why does government spend?
There are many reasons for government spending. These can be
To Provide Public goods
Public good is that good, consumption by one individual does not reduce availability of the good for consumption by others; and that no one can be effectively excluded from using the good. These goods are of importance to the general public and hence are provided by the government. Example defence, street lighting etc.
To provide Merit goods
A merit good is a commodity which is judged that an individual or society should have on the basis of a norm. The government feels that everybody should enjoy these goods irrespective of their incomeFor example, health and education. In most of the economies, governments spend a major part of their expenditure on health and education.
To maintain and promote economic growth
Public spending has an important role to play in maintain and promoting economic growth in the economy. Increases in government spending on state provided goods and services add to total domestic demand and can have multiplier effects on the final level of equilibrium national income.
Ensure welfare of the state
One of the government’s main objective is to provide reduce the gap between rich and poor and thus government provides services like health and education to the economically weaker sections of the society free of cost or at a subsidised rates. The social security system also tries to provide a safety-net for those who suffer unexpected falls in income arising from unemployment, separation and bereavement.
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