A life cycle perspective is used in this study to develop and test a model suggesting that events occuring early in the worker's life, and often beyond his control (e.g., choice of parents), influence the control over labor force withdrawal and the retirement incomes of very early retirees. (CT)

Examines the health of a sample population, men aged 45-59 in 1969, who retired before age 62 between 1966-1975. Compares the health of men receiving Social Security disability benefits with that of men reporting work-limiting health conditions at retirement but not receiving Social Security disability benefits. (Author/SK)

Explores relationship between recent policy reforms, targeting proposals, and a universal Social Security program. Explores principles that inform Social Security, concluding that treating benefits as taxable income and raising retirement age push at boundaries of universality without violating fundamental precepts of social insurance program. (BF)