"This is an admirably clear and comprehensive account of the theories and concepts of contemporary social policy. Excellent and essential for undergraduate and postgraduate social policy and social theory courses."-Fiona Williams, Professor of Social Policy, University of Leeds, UK<BR><BR>"Theory has rarely been so interesting, lively, engaging and real. Ruth Lister has produced a text of great scholarship and a tour de force."-Saul Becker, Professor of Social Policy and Social Care, University of Nottingham, UK<BR><BR>This key text from the best-selling Understanding Welfare series provides a unique understanding of the main theoretical perspectives and concepts used in social policy and related disciplines in a student-friendly format. A central theme is that theory helps us to understand policy, politics and practice. Written by a leading authority in UK social policy, the book uses diverse contemporary examples to help theoretical arguments come alive and uses summaries and additional resources to help students and their teachers in their learning. Rather than presenting abstract theory, it demonstrates the relationship between theory and political and policy debates so that students can see the relevance to their own lives. It will be essential reading for second- and third-year undergraduates and postgraduates in social policy, social theory and related subjects, as well as their teachers.