English summary

The aim of this article is to sketch the starting points and points of reference for a new order of social policy. Current contributions to relevant discussions that reflect on the normative and structural foundations of the welfare state from both historical and sociological perspectives are considered. On this basis, the author calls for a new design of the realm of the social that goes beyond both frivolous disdain and nervous vindications of the welfare state. The academic world can contribute to this task by providing a new definition of universal and particular rights, of acceptable risks and necessary privileges, and of imposed duties and secure claims founded on a positive conception of the welfare state.

Published 2005-09-27