Social Democracy Flashcards
Is it a revolutionary theory?
No.
It is a moderate theory that believes change is necessary but not revolutionary change.
Who are two key social democrats and who did they influence?
Halsey and Floud were influential in the 1960s and 1970s.
They also influenced Labour under Wilson and Blair.
What two things do they promote in education?
Economic growth and equality of opportunity in a meritocracy.
Do they believe that the system is meritocratic?
No.
Govts need to step in to ensure everyone can reach their full potential.
Do they believe that only changing education is enough?
No.
We need changes in society as well for there is too much social inequality to provide equal opps - the richest will always use wealth to gain an advantage.
What type of things would they promote to help the disadvantaged?
Expanding higher education so more wc students can enrol, and introducing more comprehensives.
Why do some believe that social democracy has been a failure?
The class gap in attainment remains large.
What does Wolf (2002) criticise about the economics?
He isn’t quite sure that spending more will generate economic growth.
Switzerland has low public spending but a large economy.
What is a feminist critique of social democracy?
They don’t focus enough on gender differences.
What do neoliberals feel has happened to education under the social democrats?
They feel that it has been levelled down.
The most able are being held back and cannot reach their full potential.
