Perspectives On Social Policy

Question 1

Functionalist view

Answer 1

• The state acts in peoples’ best interests and social policy is good for all by helping society run more smoothly
• Promote equal opportunity
• Favour a cautious approach, tackling one issue at a time

Question 2

Marxist view- what 3 ways does social policy represent the interests of the ruling class? What is a sociologist’s duty?

Answer 2

• providing polititcal legitimacy to mask exploitation e.g. the welfare state makes capitalists seem caring
• maintains the labour force e.g. NHS keeps workers fit for work
• prevents revolution by placating the working class e.g. maximum working hours

Sociologists must expose this to promote a class consciousness

Question 3

Feminist View

Answer 3

Social policy is designed to maintain patriarchy

EXAMPLE: family policies benefit married couples and maternity policies aim to keep women at home

Question 4

New Right view

Answer 4

People should be self reliant so the state should not interfere with peoples’ private lives

Opposed to the welfare state which undermines peoples’ sense of reponsibility