Summary
Contents
Subject index
Bringing together a discussion of the theories and techniques of comparative policy analysis and a description of current developments in selected welfare state regimes, European Welfare States provides an accessible overview of issues concerning European welfare states. In particular, it provides: - an overview of the development of welfare states in Europe; - a discussion of key issues including welfare state theories, the role of globalization, gender and the welfare state; welfare typologies; and the role of public opinion; - a detailed account of recent developments and current challenges in five European welfare states; and - a detailed account of the key challenges facing European welfare states and possible future directions for welfare models including the role of the European Union in the development of social policy. This book is illustrated throughout with student-friendly features such as case-studies, chapter summaries, questions for discussion and guides for further reading. With a flowing narrative and clear structure the book is an invaluable text for undergraduates taking courses in comparative social policy. It will also be useful for students in related disciplines such as public policy, social welfare, politics and international relations.
Public Opinion and European Welfare States
Public Opinion and European Welfare States
This chapter looks at public opinion, opinion polls and welfare state legitimacy in Europe. It outlines the research which has been carried out to date on the determinants of ‘public opinion’ about the welfare state. In contrast to much of the work to date, which either assumes that public opinion shapes welfare policy or tries to identify the factors which shape public opinion, we examine the extent to which comparative data in selected European countries show a relationship between public opinion (as identified by opinion poll evidence) and welfare state trajectories. It is suggested that – in a number of countries – there is a significant divergence between public opinion on the welfare state ...
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