This text examines the role of the State in advancing towards sustainable solutions for improving society. The author expands conventional views concerning the state and proposes looking beyond the traditional moulds, such as the omnipotent state, the overburdened state, or the minimal state. The book proposes new areas for development thinking to encourage innovation for the reform of the state. Topics addressed include: the role of social capital and culture in development; community participation in implementing public policies and programmes; and the characteristics of efficient public social management. The first section of the book is mainly devoted to general considerations about the state, whereas the second part reflects on key areas for rethinking with regard to the state of a specific continent, namely Latin America.