Sociology cannot, and should not influence social policy

Question 1

Piecemeal approach does not work

Answer 1

By tackling issues, one at a time, some sociologist argued that the problems as a whole are not being solved

For example, the government may aim to tackle working class differences in education by introducing policies, such as bursaries

Social problems such as educational underachievement are simple aspects of wider structural inequality, and a piecemeal approach will not be useful if they are not solved in the first instance

Question 2

Marxist

Answer 2

Marxists argue that social problems are just class. Inequality are deep rooted in society.
They reject the idea that they can be solved by the government

In their view, capitalism is responsible for these problems, and these problems cannot be solved without the abolishment of capitalism

They argue that the state represents the ruling class and social policies will reflect the interest of capitalism, not those of society as a whole

Policy seven ideological function which masks, the capitalist exploitation and policies maintain the labourforce. For example the NHS insures that workers stay fit.

Question 3

Difference feminism

Answer 3

Difference feminist argue that patriarchy is experienced in different ways
They highlight how women experience the world in different ways
A black disabled woman in the first world will have a unique experience to Hispanic woman in the third world

They argued that feminist should work to highlight the diversity and difference in women’s experience of the world, rather than lump in them altogether, which marginalises particular groups

Social policies must reflect the interests of different women and their needs

Question 4

Radical feminists

Answer 4

Radical feminist differ from liberals and argue that policies are not enough to tackle patriarchy

They believe that patriarchy is deep rooted in society, and radical solutions are needed such as separatism

Radical feminist also criticise the new right view on social policy as the new right hold traditional views on the family

If these policies which the new right promote would to go ahead in society then women would be plunged into further poverty, deepening patriarchy in society