Europe's Welfare Traditions Since 1500: Reform Without End

Thomas McStay Adams explores social welfare in Europe over five centuries, tracing the interwoven traditions of modern welfare states. He shows how to allocate aid equitably, give support without undermining autonomy, and balance private and public spheres of action and responsibility.

Format: Mixed media product
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Tracing the intricate tapestry of modern welfare states across Europe over a span of five centuries, Thomas McStay Adams delves into the realm of social welfare, exploring its evolution from Portugal, France, and Italy to Britain, Belgium, and Germany. Through his comprehensive analysis, Adams unveils the enduring challenges that have plagued the provision of assistance to those in need throughout history. These challenges include the equitable allocation of aid, the preservation of autonomy and motivation, and the delicate balance between private and public spheres of action and responsibility.

In two authoritative volumes, Adams presents a rich narrative that spans centuries. The story begins with the founding of the Casa da Misericordia in Lisbon in 1498, a model that was replicated throughout Portugal and its empire. It concludes with the relaunch of a social agenda for the European Union at the Council of Europe meeting in Lisbon in 2000. Volume 1, which covers the period from 1500 to 1700, delves into the concepts of "welfare" and "tradition." It explores how 16th-century humanists partnered with merchants and lawyers to revitalize traditional charity in distinctly modern forms. It also examines how the discipline of religious reform influenced the exercise of political authority and the promotion of economic productivity.

Volume 2, on the other hand, examines the emergence of "benevolence" in the 18th century, which secularized a Christian humanist notion of beneficence. It explores how national struggles to establish comprehensive welfare states since the second half of the 19th century built on the power of the vote. Politicians, driven by activists and guided by experts, appealed to a growing class of citizens, seeking to address their social and economic needs.

Through his meticulous research, Adams sheds light on the historical evolution of social welfare policies and practices. He highlights the contributions of key figures, such as John Locke, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Karl Marx, who shaped the philosophical foundations of social welfare. He also examines the impact of political ideologies, economic systems, and social movements on the development of social welfare systems.

In conclusion, Thomas McStay Adams' work is a seminal contribution to the study of social welfare history. By tracing the interwoven traditions of modern welfare states across Europe, he provides a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities that have shaped the provision of assistance to those in need. His analysis offers valuable insights into the historical development of social welfare policies and practices, and it sheds light on the ongoing debates and discussions about the future of social welfare in the global context.

Weight: 1432g
Dimension: 164 x 247 x 53 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350276284