Sociology and social policy

Question 1

Definition of social policy

Answer 1

Government action aimed at addressing a social need/ problem. These are in areas of society like health, education, employment and housing

Question 2

Definition of a social problem

Answer 2

Social behaviour that causes public and or private misery and calls for a collective action to solve e.g. crime

Question 3

Definition of a sociological problem

Answer 3

Any pattern of relationships that calls for explanation e.g. divorce

Question 4

Factors affecting whether sociological research succeeds in influencing policy

Answer 4

Electoral popularity
Ideological and policy preferences of gov.
Interest groups
Globalisation
Critical sociology
Cost
Funding sources

Question 5

Functionalism and social policy - the purpose

Answer 5

Researchers should provide the state with objective, value free data (empirical)
Social policies act as ‘cues’ to social problems
Serve the interests of society
‘Piecemeal approach’

Question 6

Examples of the functionalist role of policy

Answer 6

Education policies help to create meritocracy. Health policies such as NHS help the family with their roles and functions

Question 7

Evaluation of the functionalist piecemeal approach

Answer 7

Marxists argue that educational policies aimed at equal opportunities for children of different classes are often defeated by wider socal influences such as poverty

Question 8

Marxism and the role of policy

Answer 8

Marxists see the state as an instrument of the ruling class and its social policies as serving the interests of capitalism rather than interests of society. Purpose of policy : expose exploitation and oppression, focus on social class & inequality. Marxists argue policy can mask capitalist exploitation, making it seem like they caree but still benefits the ruling class

Question 9

Feminism and the role of social policy