For nearly two generations, social commentators and scholars have seen in Sweden a mirror of their own hopes and fears for the future. Proponents of economic and social democracy have been attracted by Sweden's egalitarian policies, while libertarians have expressed alarm at its corporatism and statism. In this account of Sweden's successful individual rights and collective responsibility, and its balance between equitable distribution and economic efficiency, Henry Milner portrays social democracy as a way of life. He sees it as a functioning social system embodying the principles of economic well-being, fair remuneration for work, social solidarity, democracy, participation, access to information, and respect for the environment in the way its members choose to act towards each other and live their lives.

Henry Milner teaches political science at Vanier College, is an adjunct professor at Laval, a visiting fellow at Queen's, and co-editor of Inroads. He has studied electoral reform in New Zealand and published extensively on Scandinavian institutions.

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'A sympathetic "small nation study" ... a stimulating essay.' Times Higher Education Supplement

'Interesting book.' Robert Taylor, Financial Times

'A much needed and highly valuable work - and it could not be more timely as economic and social reform sweeps through Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union. I highly recommend this work.' Derek Shearer, Professor of Public Policy, Occidental, Los Angeles

'An excellent synthesis of Swedish politics, economics, and society.' Robert Kuttner