The article deals with the problems of the concept of a state - protector (“Providence”) or social state in Europe. It is shown that the social state has historical roots and is subdivided into three types. Particular attention to this problem is traditionally given in France and in the studies of the French specialists. The ancient, long - existing, and new urgent problems of the social state are analysed. A hypothesis has been put forward that the current positions of a state - protector will be weakened by a change in socio - economic conditions and the political landscape in European countries.