In the first major work to take the home as a center of analysis for global social problems, experts from a variety of fields reveal the multidimensional reality of the home and its role in societies worldwide. This unique book serves as a basis for action by proposing global legislative, political and institutional initiatives with the home in mind.

The multidisciplinary and integrative approach taken by this book avoids simplistic accounts of the home, studies the value of the home, the service it offers, and its contribution to the wellbeing and prosperity of communities. Reviewing its internal functions and external relationships, the authors connect the themes of family, housing, income and wealth, community, relationships, family policies, socioeconomic setting, culture and history from across the world.

Academics studying issues such as family, housing, public and social policy, sociology, urban studies and poverty will benefit from the range of insights this book offers into what the home means worldwide. Policymakers, social organizations and specialized networks working in the areas of family, education, poverty and housing will greatly benefit from the insight and breadth of this research.

Contributors include: A. Argandoña, M. Bertolaso, H. Burns, A. d'Entremont, M. do Ceu Patrão Neves, E.P. Davis, R. Lastra, A. Marcos, M. Regnerus, S. Zamagni