Sociology and social policy

Question 1

Functionalist perspective on social policy

Answer 1

• favour social policies, best interests, help society run smoothly. promote equal opportunities (social cohesion)
• should investigate social problems scientifically

Question 2

New Right perspective on social policy

Answer 2

• Dislike social policies, state should not interfere in private life. dislike welfare state, become over reliant. dont take responsibility.
• policies should restore responsibility

Question 3

Marxist perspective on social policy

Answer 3

• social policies reflect the interests of the working class. caring face for capitalism, (maximum working hours) maintain the labour force.
• believe the truth should be revealed

Question 4

Social democratic perspective on social policy

Answer 4

favour social policies and wealth redistribution

Question 5

Liberal feminist perspective on social policy

Answer 5

• social policies maintain patriarchy, some policies like equal pay, beneficial, others (maternity policies) aim to keep women at home

Question 6

Postmodern perspective on social policy

Answer 6

• not interested in policies other than those which promote diversity & choice
• late modernists, policies need to adapt due to globalisation

Question 7

Interactionist perspective on social policy

Answer 7

• problems with social policys
• emphasises labels, causing biases and prejudices