The concept of the welfare society is under constant transformation and pressure. The Nordic countries are identified as models for the welfare state system. However, a revised perspective on the concept includes a broader definition of the social production of well-being. The book investigates the relation with non-governmental bodies, civil society, and social commons to public services and places strong focus on the inclusion of disadvantaged groups. Is the concept of the welfare society an aim for social development from a European perspective? The International Consortium for Social Development is an organization of practitioners, scholars and students in the human services that addresses this question.