Advanced Introduction to Social Protection

Elgar Advanced Introductions series

James Midgley, Professor of the Graduate School, University of California, Berkeley, US

Written by James Midgley, a leading authority on international social policy and social development, this Advanced Introduction offers a concise, readable and wide-ranging overview of how protection schemes such as social assistance, social insurance, employer mandates and social allowances promote social welfare by meeting peoples’ income needs and improving their living standards. It defines the field, traces its historical evolution, discusses the contribution of theories and ideologies and examines its impact on poverty.

‘Professor Midgley’s vast knowledge of the social protection field is clearly demonstrated in this new book in which he provides the reader with an outstanding historical analysis of social policies, a comprehensive review of theories of social protection, and an analysis of current socioeconomic issues such as incomes and poverty, economic development, and economic growth.

James Midgley also effectively and thoroughly discusses the impact that governments, ideologies, and politics have on the nature and accessibility of policies and how governments can make the policies appropriate, accessible, and effective. This book is a must read for anyone interested in the social policy and development fields, as well as those who have an interest in poverty reduction and improving the lives of people across the developed and developing world.’
– Silvia Borzutzky, Carnegie Mellon University, US

‘In protecting the poor and enhancing social justice, social protection is of key importance – yet, compared to other social systems, from schools to streets, it has received scant attention. James Midgley, drawing on a wealth of scholarship, introduces social protection – its global history, underlying concepts and values, its impact and the challenges it faces. Showing the importance of social protection, while demonstrating its breadth and complexity, this book makes an important contribution to the promotion of social justice.’
– David Piachaud, London School of Economics, UK

‘James Midgley’s Advanced Introduction to Social Protection is a welcome addition to contemporary social protection literature. It provides an excellent appraisal of social protection theory, practice, impacts on poverty and inequality, and the economic and societal contexts that shape these policies around the world. It is highly recommended for post graduate students, scholars and policy makers.’
– Leila Patel, University of Johannesburg, South Africa