The evolution of welfare states over the past 150 years showcases significant diversity, shaped by historical events and economic challenges. After a period of robust growth post-World War II, the 1970s oil crisis marked the beginning of a perceived crisis in these systems. Subsequent discussions have centered on the dismantling and retrenchment of welfare states, particularly in the wake of the financial crisis, often framed under the concepts of austerity and reform. This analysis highlights the ongoing debates surrounding the future of welfare policies.
At last - a textbook on the public sector for students of social policy,
public policy, political science and sociology. This book explains why we have
a public sector and what tasks it is expected to perform.
This fully revised and updated edition of Happiness provides an accessible
introduction to the concept of happiness and how it can be applied to public
policy in order to help citizens achieve the good life.
Exploring the complexities of inequality across multiple dimensions, this book delves into various forms of disparity, including economic, social, and environmental factors. It presents analytical frameworks and empirical data to understand how these inequalities intersect and impact different populations. The authors emphasize the importance of addressing multidimensional aspects to formulate effective policies and interventions. Through case studies and theoretical discussions, the book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of inequality in a global context.
U.S. Strategy in the Asian Century offers vital perspective on the future of
power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific, focusing on the critical roles that
American allies and partners can play. Blending academic rigor and practical
policy experience, Abraham M. Denmark analyzes the future of major-power
competition in the region.
The book explores the intricate dynamics between family life, employment, and the welfare system across Denmark, Sweden, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. It analyzes how varying welfare models—balancing state, market, and civil society—affect these relationships, offering a comparative perspective on social policies and their implications for families in different European contexts.
Focusing on the interplay between state, market, and civil society, this book explores central concepts related to societal distribution. It examines how these elements interact and shape the positions of various groups within society, offering insights into the dynamics of power and resource allocation.
In a time of increasing inequality, why has there been a recent surge of
support for political parties who promote an anti-welfare message? Using a
mixed methods approach and newly released data, this book aims to answer this
question and to show possible ways forward for welfare states.
Poverty: The Basics will present the readers with the core concepts, latest development and knowledge about policies that work to eliminate absolute poverty.
Social and Labour Market Policy: The Basics is an engaging and accessible introduction to the subject, which explores the broad historical, social and economic factors which have affected the differing types of social and labour market policies found in welfare states. Drawing links between social policy and labour market policy the book explores key introductory topics including: Defining what we mean when we speak of social policy and labour market policy Historical origins including Bismarckian and Beveridgian reforms The range of social issues social policy aims to address, e.g. housing policy and child provision Showing how social policy enhances well-being Ideas and ideology and the effects of globalisation The functioning of the labour market. Social and Labour Market Policy: The Basics provides readers with an understanding of their importance to the development of contemporary society. This book is suitable for students of social policy as well as students taking a social policy module as part of a wider course within politics, social work, health care, sociology and economics. Researchers interested in the field will also benefit from reading this book.
