We have heard arguments against the "nanny state" and against "cradle-to-grave security".

Russian men, on the other hand, had a heritage of serfdom, followed by more than 70 years of dictatorship that offered cradle-to-grave security and robbed them of initiative.

The Social Democrats led a comprehensive social-welfare state in postwar Denmark and the cradle-to-grave securities that guarantee medical care, education and public assistance were expanded.

In Sweden, long known for cradle-to-grave security, the change has been even more sweeping.

"They have fled their houses, cashed in and rejected cradle-to-grave security," Ms. Ridihalgh said.

Will the Soviets ever find a formula that offers the efficiency gains of Western capitalism and still satisfies their people's yearning for cradle-to-grave security?

Limited contracts have become increasingly common in recent years as state-owned enterprises have lost Government subsidies and can no longer afford to provide every worker with cradle-to-grave security.

But cheap charter airline fares do not include the cradle-to-grave security that Scandinavians have woven around themselves, and neutrality cannot guard against natural disaster.

Even that most fundamental bedrock of the Soviet social contract, cradle-to-grave security, came under threat in vague discussions of layoffs.

The Community had grown prosperous, and membership guaranteed cradle-to-grave security.