The Welfare State System and Common Security

This book argues that the welfare state system should be adopted globally, not only for the purpose of achieving equality and justice within nations, but also for security between states. Using Finland, Sweden and Canada as case studies, it theorises that the welfare state system and the common security system, which are mutually reinforcing peace structures, should be utilised worldwide as the best method of attaining peace and prosperity. It demonstrates the feasibility of the welfare state in the past, whilst also showing how these historical experiences can be translated into socio-political action to address contemporary global challenges. Operating in the fields of political theory, international relations, and social philosophy, it will appeal to scholars and students of public policy, the welfare state, and sociology, as well as state policymakers. B. Vivekanandan is former Professor and Chairman of the Centre for American and West European Studies at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, India. He has been Visiting Professor at Carleton University and the University of Helsinki, and a Visiting Fellow at the University of Konstanz, Germany.