Towards a Social Investment Welfare State?
Ideas, Policies and Challenges
Bruno Palier editor Joakim Palme editor Nathalie Morel editor
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Bristol University Press
Published:1st Jul '12
Should be back in stock very soon

This insightful book examines the European social investment strategy, questioning its effectiveness in revitalizing the welfare state and addressing modern challenges. Towards a Social Investment Welfare State? offers a critical analysis.
In Towards a Social Investment Welfare State?, the author explores the intricate landscape of the European 'social investment' strategy, analyzing its conceptual foundations and the actual policies enacted across various nations. This comprehensive examination is particularly relevant for scholars of social policy and practitioners in the field, as it delves into the effectiveness of these strategies in revitalizing the welfare state. The book raises critical questions about the potential of social investment to foster social inclusion, create quality employment opportunities, and tackle pressing issues such as economic crises, globalization, demographic shifts, and climate change.
The work brings together contributions from leading social policy scholars and respected policy experts, creating a rich dialogue that bridges academic research and practical policy considerations. By evaluating the successes, limitations, and future prospects of social investment policies, Towards a Social Investment Welfare State? provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges facing contemporary welfare systems. The collaborative efforts of the Nordic Center of Excellence NordWel and the EU-funded Network of Excellence RECWOWE lend additional credibility to the discussions and findings presented.
Ultimately, this book serves as a vital resource for anyone interested in the evolution of welfare states in Europe. It not only highlights the importance of social investment as a strategic approach but also prompts readers to critically assess whether these initiatives can truly reshape the welfare landscape for future generations.
"The first book that gives us a balanced and sophisticated analysis of what social investment policies entail and how they have been implemented across the advanced world. It will become the authoritative reference on welfare state reform for years to come... a must-read for any serious social policy course." Gøsta Esping-Andersen, Professor of Sociology, Universitat Pompeu Fabra
"An original contribution that sheds light on the recent and current reform dynamics of welfare states. This book will enrich the public and academic debate substantially by inviting us all to reflect on how to tackle the present economic crisis and the way ahead, while also opening salient avenues to guide future research." Ana M. Guilln, Professor of Sociology, Universidad de Oviedo
"....of crucial relevance in this time of economic crisis." Ana M. Guillén, Professor of Sociology, University of Oviedo, Spain
ISBN: 9781847429254
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
400 pages