‘This book argues that sustaining humane welfare states is a matter of political will. Modern welfare states face many challenges from neo-liberalism, austerity, globalization, population ageing and the emergence of new social risks. None of these challenges is insuperable. The real question is whether the political solidarities on which the welfare state was founded can be renewed in a more open and unequal world.’

Peter Taylor-Gooby, University of Kent

‘At moments of great economic uncertainty and social insecurity, it is wise to count one’s blessings. In this marvellously concise and timely essay Andrew Gamble, one of Britain’s most prolific political commentators, steers clear of nostalgia. There is no ground for retrospective ‘ill fares the land’ melancholia. Capitalism, democracy and modern welfare provision can only prosper in sync. The welfare state is an integrative institution – not a divisive one. But this general lesson requires a strong reformist political commitment to invest in a future-oriented social infrastructure for rich twenty-first century capitalist democracies. This political commitment cannot be taken for granted at a time when many citizens and politicians wrongly believe that the welfare state era is over. Sobering but extremely important reading for all who care.’

Anton Hemerijck, VU University Amsterdam and the London School of Economics and Political Science