Welfare States and Social Policy: A 21st-Century Introduction

Are you curious about how societies care for their citizens and address inequality? Explore the fundamental concepts behind welfare states and social policy, and understand their critical role in shaping modern societies. By the end of this course, you will possess a foundational understanding of social policy frameworks, their historical development, and the key debates surrounding their future in an ever-changing world. What you'll learn: * Understand the core definitions and historical evolution of welfare states and social policy. * Analyze the diverse functions and goals that welfare states serve in different societies. * Compare major welfare state models and their policy approaches across various countries. * Examine the impact of globalization, technological change, and demographic shifts on contemporary social policy. * Identify key challenges and emerging trends shaping the future of welfare provision in the 21st century. * Practice evaluating basic social policy dilemmas through structured thought exercises. This course begins with foundational concepts and historical context, then progresses to explore different welfare models, current challenges, and future directions in social policy. This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior knowledge of social policy or political science. All you need is a willingness to read, learn, and engage with complex societal issues. Embark on this essential journey to understand the fabric of modern societies.