The Future of Social Policy

Description

This book analyses trends and data relating to issues affecting social policy in mature welfare states in Europe, and uses these elements to further our understanding of, and ability to try to say something about, the future of social policy, its direction and content. Looking at the financial crisis of 2008, the refugee crisis in Europe, COVID-19, the climate crisis, ageing populations and the rise of artificial intelligence, it shows how these may also have an impact on future social policy, including what kind of social policy might be needed because of changes in living conditions across the continent. Written by one of Europe's more prominent social policy experts, this book, the first of its kind, will be required reading for all scholars and students of social policy, social welfare, public policy, sociology and social work. Cover Half Title Title Page Copyright Page Contents List of Figures and tables Preface 1. What is it all about? 2. Once again the demographic pressure 3. The welfare mix – Change and development 4. Ideologies and the welfare states 5. Legitimacy of social policy 6. Inequality and social policy 7. Is the welfare state affordable – and how can it be financed? 8. Technology and social policy 9. Core elements of the future of social policy 10. Future of social policy and quality of life Index