Social policy is never static because both needs and resources alter. However, many of the issues which were central to social policy when these books were first published remain relevant for much of the world today: an ageing population, housing shortages, changes in employment. Originally published between 1965 and 1990 the 14 volumes in this set:
- Concentrate on the major developments in social policy in the second half of the 20th century. They consider these in relation to the economic and social environment, examining social policy in relation to industry, urban planning, and housing need.
- Examine the idea of social justice and the implications of the 'work ethic' particularly in relation to our views of what help strangers need or deserve.
- Discuss the relationship between welfare rights and human rights
- Critique official policy towards families with young children living on low incomes and look at some of the myths prevalent in the public debate
- Analyze the trend towards the privatization of welfare in the context of economic change.
- Discuss the fundamental questions of the nature, scope and intent of social policy
- Provide information about social problems and the growth, structure and working of the social services in the late 20thCentury.
