This book provides a critical understanding of contemporary issues
within global society and how these relate to six case study examples
(UK, USA, China, India, South Africa, Bangladesh, and Japan). The
authors draw on their diverse experience to explore four major themes of
contemporary relevance: overall aging of societies; governance and
institutions; emergency services and public health provisions; and
community activism and involvement. The key issues within the
book--sociability, social capital, and community development--are
examined in the context of an ever increasing aging world. The authors'
sense of optimism is linked to growing evidence that community activism
is on the rise and can effectively plug the gap between public need and
provision of service.