This
comprehensive collection of essays is written in an accessible and lively style by some of
the leading experts in Wales. It is the first commentary in book form on the processes of
change in Wales in the late twentieth century.This
comprehensive collection of essays is written in an accessible and lively style by some of
the leading experts in Wales. It is the first commentary in book form on the processes of
change in Wales in the late twentieth century.
‘Written in an accessible style, and free from some of the worst jargon for which sociologists have a penchant, this book should be required reading for our politicians, teachers, administrators and all who have the interests of our people at heart.’ (Meic Stephens - Western Mail Magazine)
'Each chapter is written by an expert and the authors succeed in providing a concise overview of contemporary research in their topic . . . This book challenges some conventional wisdoms and will provoke further debate on the nature of contemporary Welsh politics'. (Political Studies)‘This collection of essays about Wales as it is – rather than as it was or as it is imagined to be – is a welcome contribution to the process of renewal in which the people of Wales are now engaged. A photograph of Kevin Atherton's Cardiff Bay sculpture, A Private View, in all its pristine "steel, bronze, and optical elements", fills the front cover, and the visual images which preface the opening of each chapter are direct and unencumbered by stereotypes, myths or relics of any kind . . . ’ (Planet)
‘The book assembles a solid body of material and will be very useful for educational and research purposes.’ (Scottish Affairs)
Over the last few decades Wales has experienced a process of tremendous social upheaval. Some of the changes, notably the increasing participation in higher education and the establishment of the National Assembly, have positive implications. Others, such as the crisis in agriculture and the problems of the south Wales valleys, are cause for grave concern. The essays in this volume address a veritable kaleidoscope of themes, such as education, language, the arts and media, race, poverty, homelessness, health, child welfare, crime, the position of women and the rural dimension, and the volume as a whole provides a rounded and thought-provoking assessment of the political, social, cultural and economi