It is processes in the sphere of social development in countries of the West that are considered in the article. At the center of the author’s attention are basic factors determining transformation of the state’s approaches to forming and waging social policy. Arguments of the advocates of reconsidering the role and functions of the state in the development of society have been considered, as well as the question discussed of the influence of external factors on the character of social policy. In the comparative context, particular character has been considered of the transformation of the state’s policy in the USA and in countries of West Europe in the main segments of the social sphere: social security, public health, pensionary system. Here’s the leading idea of the article: reforms alter the model of “big social policy”, they are directed at its adaptation for new internal and external aspects of the development of economy and of society in the countries of the West, but they are hardly able to seriously damage the “edifice” of social guarantees, that has been elevated for many decades.