'A very readable book [...] The debate is therefore one of particular interest to the caring profession from whom the author has provided a very scholarly introduction to the subject with a cogent set of conclusions' Institute of Health Education Journal 'Harry Cowen's book should be essential reading on DipSW courses. It is an accessible introduction to models and theories of human nature and how they inform our professional practice. [...] A healthy antidote to much of today's so-called debate' Professional Social Work 'Cowen eloquently espresses the enormous signifance of assumptions about human nature to social policy analysis and teaching' Eithne Mc Laughlin, Social Policy Written in a user-friendly manner with carefully laid out introductions and conclusions, There is a good bibliography. Political Studies Association 43/3 Dec '95