Understanding Theories and Concepts in Social Policy - Paperbackby Ruth Lister (Author), Ruth Patrick (Author), Kate Brown (Author) Demonstrating the relevance of theory to political and policy debates and practice, this lively and accessible second edition helps students to grasp the real life implications of social policy theory. The updated text includes consideration of contemporary shifts in welfare ideologies in the context of global austerity and the UK Coalition and Conservative governments since 2010.