sociology and social policy Flashcards
how sociology influences social policy - change assumptions
sociological research can help change commonly held assumptions and attitudes in society - can help prove that commonly held assumptions are wrong and can result in the gov taking action to pass laws in line with new social attitudes held by society.
e.g - Griffin’s covert observation into racism in US - darkened his skin and moved into a black neighbourhood to gain deeper insight into extreme racism faced by black people lead to change in attitude of Americans in relation to racial segregation.
how sociology influences social policy - provide theoretical framework
different sociological perspectives provide theoretical background and framework for many political parties.
e.g - new right perspective tends to influence policies passed by the conservative gov.
murray - welfare benefits need to be cut as they increase the dependency ratio by providing perverse incentives for families such as lone parent families as they lose responsibility and rely extensively on the state.
how far can sociology influence social policy - ideological preferences of gov in power
if sociologist’s ideological background is similar to current gov’s, recommendations are more likely to be implemented as they are on same political spectrum.
e.g - the black report recommended free school meals for all children, improved working conditions, better benefits for disabled and more spending to improve housing. however, cons gov refused to implement recommendations on the grounds of cost and tried to restrict publication of research.
how far can sociology influence social policy - interest groups
interest groups = pressure groups that aim to influence gov policies and may pressure gov into not implementing recommendations put forward by sociologists that don’t highlight their interests.
e.g - business pressure groups may be opposed to raising wages so sociologists who recommend policies to raise wages are unsuccessful as interests groups exert a higher influence over gov policies
new right perspective on SPs
purpose of SP is to reduce gov interference, people should be self sufficient. for this reason they’re in favour of any policy that introduces principles of free market economy into laws passed by the gov
are in favour of marketisation of edu e.g creation of free schools which gives schools rights to run themselves, therefore are opposed to policies that creates gov interference e.g welfare which creates dependency culture as benefits are perverse incentives
feminist perspective on SPs
SPs maintain patriarchy - allow women’s subordination to continue in society e.g maternity and paternity leave, benefit entitlement, lack of state provision for elderly care so women expected to take care of elderly relatives
