Social Policy for the Twenty-First Century: New Perspectives, Big Issues

In the new century, governments face three challenges for their social policies. Their efforts to improve their citizens’ well-being must be consistent with the development of the world economy, and should if possible enhance the situation of the poorest populations. Their systems for redistribution and public services must be rooted in a convincing version of their own domestic order. And they should be sustainable over time, doing justice to the needs of future generations.

This book shows how social policy can address these big issues, and how they relate to each other in an integrated world economy. Drawing on perspectives and analyses from political and social theory, economics, psychology, migration studies and international relations, Bill Jordan gives a new account of the links between global human development and individual well-being. He analyses the purposes and strategies of international organizations, business corporations and ordinary individuals, using case examples from all over the world.

Essential reading for anyone interested in the future of social policy.