Theory and Methods Debates Flashcards

Question

# **Sociology and social policy** What are sociological problems?

Answer 1

Problems of society that sociologists use to direct their research of patterns and trends of society.

Answer 2

Social behaviour that causes public friction and misery, and requires a collective response.

Answer 3

They help sociologists identify areas of inequality, discrimination, and social injustice, and analyze the root causes and consequences of these problems. Social policies often shape the research agenda of sociologists as they provide sociologists with valuable data for evidence-based research of social phenomena, By studying social policies, sociologists can identify areas where change is needed and contribute to the development of more inclusive policies. Sociologists examine the intended and unintended consequences of policies on social groups which help policymakers and sociologists understand how policies shape social structures and individual lives or whether they contribute to positive social change or perpetuate existing inequalities.

Answer 4

Functionalists argue that social policies fulfill specific functions and contribute to the overall functioning of society Policies promote social cohesion e.g. public education and welfare programs ensure that individuals have equal access to basic resources and opportunities which maintains social order. Social policies are developed to meet the various social needs of individuals and groups in society. By fulfilling these needs, social policies help ensure the smooth functioning of society and prevent social unrest that may arise from unmet needs. For example, section one of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933 parents who are legally responsible for a child must provide food, medical aid and lodging for their children.

Answer 5

The New Right advocates for minimal state intervention in social policy. It argues that excessive government involvement leads to inefficiency and dependency on the state. They argue that individuals should take personal responsibility for their own welfare and well-being, rather than relying on the state or social programs. E.g. According to HM Revenue & Customs families won’t be paid an additional child benefit for more than 2 children. The focus is on enabling individuals to make their own decisions and pursue their own interests, rather than being dictated by state-imposed solutions.

Answer 6

Marxists argue that social policies protect the interests of the capitalist class and maintain their control over the means of production. Social policies, such as labor laws and regulations, are seen as mechanisms that ensure the continuation of capitalist exploitation and the accumulation of wealth by the ruling class. E.g. National Minimum Wage Act 1998 sets out the minimum amount of pay a worker is entitled to per hour. They suggest that policies such as social welfare programs or poverty alleviation measures only temporarly provide relief for marginalised groups by addressing the symptoms of inequality rather than addressing its root causes.

Answer 7

Feminists argue that social policy ignore the social and economic disadvantages faced by women, including limited access to education and career prospects. They argue that social policy maintans patriarchy as childcare costs and lack of availability requires a parent to stay home, usually the mother due to gender pay gaps. This maintains their responsibility for domestic labor. E.g. The Statutory Maternity Pay Regulations 1986 established that a woman won't get maternity leave pay after 39 weeks of leave. Feminists argue that social policies should aim to reduce gender inequalities by addressing gender wage gaps, promoting women's representation in decision-making positions etc.

Answer 8

Postmodernists emphasize the diverse nature of society therefore, they argue that social policy should recognise and accommodate the diversity of individuals and groups, including their experiences, identities, and perspectives. Postmodernists highlight how social policies are constantly evolving and being shaped by ever-changing social phenomena. E.g. In 1885, the Criminal Law Amendment Act made consent in homosexual acts criminal. However, the Sexual Offences Act 1967 decriminalised such behaviour between those aged 21 and over and in 2000 it was reduced to 16. Postmodernism emphasizes the idea that individuals are active participants in shaping social realities and therefore, social policy.

Answer 9

When political parties or candidates seek public support to win elections, they shape their policy priorities based on the preferences and demands of voters. To do this they make specific policy promises during election campaigns to attract voters. They may prioritize social issues that resonate with the electorate, such as education, or income inequality. E.g. The labour party prioritises policies that guarantee a minimum standard of living for everyone and heavy taxation of large incomes and of wealth. The popularity of these policy proposals can influence parties' agendas and shape their policy priorities if they are elected to power.

Answer 10

The increasing interconnectedness and interdependence of countries and societies which can lead to the convergence and diffusion of social policies across countries. As countries interact and learn from each other, they may adopt similar policy approaches which may contribute to the proliferation of global norms. E.g. the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals which include policies such as gender equality have been adopted by many countries. These global norms can influence social policy by putting pressure on governments to align their policies with international standards and expectations.

Answer 11

Funding availability can shape the design and implementation of social programs because the amount of funding allocated to a program can determine its accessibility and duration. Adequate funding allows for comprehensive program implementation, and the provision of adequate resources and infrastructure, whereas insufficient funding may result in service gaps, reduced quality of services or even discontinuation. E.g. Education Action Zones (EAZ), introduced by New Labour 1997-2010 attracted limited sponsorship so was not continued beyond its initial 5 year term. Funding plays a crucial role in shaping social policy as it has a direct impact on the resources available for implementing and sustaining social programs and initiatives.

Answer 12

Ideological preferences guide policymakers in determining the goals and priorities of social policy. Different ideologies may prioritize different aspects of society e.g. Marxists prioritise addressing social class inequality. These preferences influence the issues that policymakers choose to address and the strategies used to address them. E.g. a conservative ideology may emphasize limited government intervention whereas a progressive ideology may advocate for more extensive government involvement. These ideological preferences influence the design and implementation of social policies.