Social Policy Flashcards
What is social policy?
Refer to laws made by the gov which aim to improve society or deal with a social policy
Social Problems?
Octal behaviour that causes public friction and misery and requires a collective response.
EX - poverty and divorce
Sociological problems?
Worsley - any pattern of relationships that class for an explanation.
In other words any social behaviour which requires explanation
What is the functionalist view on social policy?
The state acts int he best interests of society and see social policy as being good for all
Social policies help to help society to run smoothly and effiecntly
What is the New Right view on social policy?
People should be self reliant Believe that the state should not interfere too much in the private lives of citizens
Social policy should aim to restore peoples sense of responsibility
What is the Marxist view on social policy?
State represents the interests of the ruling class and therefore social policies will reflect the interests f the ruling class as well
What are some of the social policies according to Marxism?
Provide ideological legitimation - to mask capitalist exploitation
Maintain he labour force - for example the NHS keeps workers fit for labour
Means of preventing revolution - by placating the WC and making it seem as if the state looking after the WC. Such such as the maximum working hours
According to Marxist, what should sociologists do to overcome this?
Reveal the unpleasant truth about capitalist policies rather than solve the problems.
What is the Feminist view on social policy?
State and society is patriarchal and therefore social policies are designed to maintain this patriarchy.
EX - family policies which benefit married couples and maternity policies are aimed at keeping women at home
What should you acknowledge about feminism in the exams?
Feminists don’t all agree with each other - they’re are many types of feminism within feminism
What is the PMS view on social policy?
PMS are not really interested in social policy however do support policies that chose diversity and choices.
What are the factors affecting the influence of sociology on social policy?
- Electoral Popularity
- Ideological Preferences
- Cost
- Globalisation
- Critical sociology
- Funding
What is electoral popularity?
Research findings may be unpopular with voters so govs may decide not to follow these recommendations
Ideological Preferences?
If a researcher values or perspectives are in line with he gov then it is more likely to have a chance at influencing policy. EG New Right & conservative gov
Cost/Funding?
Govs may not have the budget to implement a sociologists recommendations. Whoever is funding the research may influence the recommendations and findings that the study publishes
Globalisation?
Social policy isn’t just made by a nation in isolation. International organisations such as IMP and EU may have an influence on policy of individual nations
Critical Sociology?
Some sociologists like Marxists are critical of the sate and are therefore unlikely to influence policy
