Children, Family and the State

'... a rich, thoughtful study of its subject-matter which is in the end very rewarding.' Journal of Moral Philosophy 'This is a dense and illuminating account, from a philosophical viewpoint, of the complex issues around how children, families and the Sate related to each other. This triad is at the heart of all the debates and controversies which make child welfare such a challenging form of practice. For this reason Archard's book will be of use to all those professionals who work with children and their families - whether that work is in the field of health, social welfare, law or education.' Children & Society 'This is extremely well written and accessible introduction to the moral philosophy of childhood, and also an important contribution to the field.' The Philosophical Quarterly 'Archard has written a thoughtful and compelling book, one that should be required for any curriculum that prepares health and human services professionals for work with troubled children... Archard has provided us with a fine philosophical exposition on the rationales and limits for intervening on behalf of troubled children. The field will be fortunate to have more erudition of such quality to guide its work in the future.' Children and Youth Services Review 'At the introductory level, this is undoubtedly the best book available on the market concerning the child, the family and the state in social, moral and political philosophy. Archard offers us first rate philosophy of education: an absolute must-read for all those who are interested in children's rights and other closely related matters.' Ethical Perspectives.

• Contents: Preface; Introduction: children, family and the state; Children; The family; The state; Bibliography.