Introduction—The Importance of Critical Theorizing

This chapter examines the way in which theorizing can enrich our understanding of welfare with specific reference to the range of perspectives which have emerged over the past several decades. Indeed, the chapter is concerned with locating and scrutinizing the accelerating theoretical developments in social aging and moves to reviewing their key concerns. The different social theories and philosophies which have materialized exemplify an interpretation of the consequences welfare policy has for vulnerable people.