"This fully updated new edition of a trusted text retains the accessibility and engaging style of its predecessor. With analysis of the key concepts and theories of welfare, this book examines the potential impact of globalization and the financial crisis, making it core reading for all those...

Modern conservatism versus social democracy -- The new radicalisms -- Agency, community and class -- Insecurities -- Information and society -- Genes and environments -- Social psychologies, emotions, bodies -- Governance, crime and surveillance -- Culture and media