Essay from the year 2007 in the subject Cultural Studies - European Studies, grade: 1.0, Uppsala University, language: English, abstract: The welfare states are in transition. Numerous developments of social change take place at the same time. Focusing on the sphere of the individual, a trend towards demands for subjective well-being can be seen. The quality of life is determined by individual concepts of personal confidence through authenticity. In order to achieve authenticity a self-reflexive interaction with the spirit is needed. Spirituality takes place in a distinct personal sphere and focuses on internal matters. These internal matters are implemented into society on a second stage through personal relationships, but also general behaviour in society. The sections of influence of the subjective sphere on publicity and thereby welfare regimes are uncountable. A focus on spiritual needs in the context of a research on welfare in Europe could definitely enrich the study result.