Written in a concise and accessible style by Michael Hill, this textprovides a coherent, thematic account of social policy in the modern world. Takes a comparative approach, considering the ways in which different countries approach social policies. Discusses the applicability of comparative theory in social policy Examines individual policy areas, including social security, employment policy, health services, social care and education. Provides a comparative exploration of current issues in social policy, such as the implications of ageing societies and the impact of global forces. Written in a concise and accessible style by Michael Hill, who is also the author of Blackwell’s Understanding Social Policy, now in its seventh edition.