Economics is neutral between ends “Discuss the validity of this statement in a welfare state.

"Economics is neutral between ends" is an economic theory developed by a British economist, Lionel Robbins.  It implies that as long as an outcome is reached, or a human need is satisfied, it does not matter how it was achieved.   In a welfare state, the target is to provide the minimal good or welfare for the vulnerable of the population, that is to meet the needs of those citizens who cannot cater for themselves.  Applying this concept, it means that whatever means the government uses to achieve the people's welfare is justified by the end (welfarism).  This concept promotes another concept that "the ends justify the means."

In other words, provided the goal of meeting the needs of the less privileged population is met, Economics does not care..

Explanation:

In Economics, the ends are the human needs or wants, which are numerous and insatiable given the limited natural resources (means).

A welfare state, according to investopedia.com, is a system of government "in which the state or an established group of social institutions provides basic economic security for its citizens."  This makes the government in a welfare state responsible for the total welfare of its citizens.  The welfare state is based on the principles of equality of opportunity, equal distribution of wealth, and public responsibility for citizens who are unable to provide themselves the minimal provisions of life.