In New tools in Welfare research various tools for qualitative and quantitative research on welfare are presented. The anthology presents both new and established theoretical perspectives and research methods in welfare research. The anthology has been developed within the framework of the Nordic Summer University and thus influenced by different research traditions at colleges and universities in the Nordic countries.Research tools in which people are involved are described, people's own statements and experiences are utilized and can be interpreted on the basis of established theoretical perspectives as phenomenology, hermeneutics, and interactionism. The research approaches presented enables people in different ages to participate even themselves and formulating the image of their living conditions. In the anthology shows how research using these approaches can be together with children, adults or old people in different life situations. It is also shown that comparative approaches may offer new insights into the various dimensions of the welfare system as a cultural practice.