Never before in the history of humanity has there been as rapid an increase in longevity as there was during the 20th century. In industrialized countries, life expectancy at birth has risen from an average of about 50 years in 1900 to a little over 80 years today. A growing number of people can now live not only longer but also healthier than ever before. Indeed, substantial gains in terms of quality-adjusted life expectancy have been recorded for decades in many countries.

How taxes on products deemed harmful do not necessarily have the desired effects.

The measures promoted by the anti-tobacco movement.

The perverse effects of regulation.

Concrete ideas for reforming Quebec's health care system.

Six concrete ideas for reforming Quebec's health care system.

The issues of the Quebec election campaign.

There are some especially important lessons to be drawn from the experiences of Germany, England, Denmark, France and Italy, all countries whose health care systems are based on the principle of universal care. In this publication, the MEI is proposing six concrete ideas for reforming Quebec's health care system that are inspired by the experience of these countries. These reform proposals, which are all interrelated, would likely lead to substantial improvements both to the quality of care provided to patients and to their access to that care.

The Quebec health care system.

How taxes on products deemed harmful do not necessarily have the desired effects.