This is the first work that systematically applies the comparative method to the study of social policy and administration. After a full discussion of this approach in the introduction, the book offers three authoritative national studies--France, Norway, Canada--each giving a rounded picture of social policy and administration in the particular country. Social needs, resources, and forms of social administration are related to the most significant social, demographic, economic, and political factors of the area in question. The authors trace the development of social policies and indicate the direction these policies are likely to take in the future. Comparisons between problems and solutions in all three countries, as well as in Great Britain and the United States, are made throughout.

Part II contains comparative analyses of particular problems and of the different forms of social administration designed to deal with them. The problem approach is applied to five areas of social administration: social policy and social planning, social security, coordination, social policies and care for the aged and family policies. Examples are taken not only from the countries previously under study, but also from other Western nations with well-developed social service systems. A concluding chapter delineates the benefits of the comparative method as demonstrated in this volume, and outlines how the goals set forth in the introduction have been fulfilled.

This unique and fascinating book will be of interest to a wide range of readers, especially those concerned with the study, the making, or the implementation and administration of social policy. It will serve as a stimulus for fresh interpretation and the re-evaluation of major social institutions here and abroad.