Social policies theoretical perspectives Flashcards
How do functionalists view social policy?
As part of the “march of progress”, helping society and the family function better, rather than as a tool of control.
What does Fletcher argue? (functionalism)
Introduction of health and education and housing policies in the years since the industrial revolution has gradually led to the development of a welfare state that supports the family in performing its functions more effectively
How does Donzelot criticise the functionalist view?
Oppressing certain types of families
Focusing on micro level of how the caring profession acts as agents of social control through the surveillance of their families
How does Foucault’s critique the functionalist view?
Concept of surveillance
Power is diffused throughout society and found within all relationships
Profesionals are seen as exercising power over their clients by using their expert knowledge to turn them into cases to be dealt with
What does Donzelot argue about policing the family?
Surveillance is not targeted equally at all social classes.
Poor families are much more likely to be seen as problem families and as a cause of crime and antisocial behaviour
There are families that professionals target for improvement
What does Condry argue?
The state may seek control and regulate family life by imposing compulsory parenting orders through courts.
Parents of young offenders or badly behaved children may be forced to attend parenting classes to learn the correct way to bring up children
How do the New Right view social policy?
They believe policies should support the traditional nuclear family and encourage self-reliance, not create a dependency culture.
What are some criticisms the New Right have of current policies?
Overly generous welfare supports lone parenthood.
Council housing for single mothers encourages family breakdown.
Welfare undermines the role of the male breadwinner.
What was the Beveridge Report?
A report identifying five “giants” of social problems (Want, Ignorance, Squalor, Idleness, Disease) and recommending a comprehensive, universal, and compulsory welfare system.
What do feminists argue about social policy?
That social policies often reinforce gender roles and patriarchal assumptions.
What do liberal feminists believe?
That reforms such as equal pay and maternity leave are steps towards gender equality.
What do radical feminists argue?
That patriarchy is deeply entrenched, and policies alone are not enough to achieve true equality—sexism still persists even with policy changes.
How do Marxists view social policy?
As a tool that serves the capitalist ruling class and maintains the class system.
What does Althusser argue?
That social institutions (like the family) are ideological state apparatuses used to control people—e.g., working-class parents prepare their children to be obedient workers.
