T&M - Social Policy Flashcards
What is a ‘social problem’ according to WORSLEY?
A piece of social behaviour that causes public friction and/or private misery and calls for collective action to resolve it.
WORSLEY’s definition emphasizes the societal impact and the need for action.
How does a ‘sociological problem’ differ from a ‘social problem’?
A sociological problem is any pattern of relationships that calls for an explanation, including both problematic and non-problematic behaviours.
This perspective highlights the sociologist’s interest in understanding behaviour beyond just issues labeled as problematic.
What is the role of sociologists according to FUNCTIONALISTS?
To provide the state with objective, scientific information to shape policies.
Functionalists believe in a consensus view of society and see the state as serving the interests of all members.
Define ‘piecemeal social engineering’.
An approach where a cautious strategy is taken to tackle social issues one at a time.
This method is favored by Functionalists who prefer gradual changes.
What are the ‘Five Giants’ identified in the BEVERIDGE REPORT?
- Disease
- Squalor
- Ignorance
- Want
- Idleness
These giants represent key social problems that the report aimed to address through policy.
What is the Marxist perspective on social policies?
Marxists argue that social policies serve the interests of the ruling class and capitalism, rather than the working class.
They believe policies mask exploitation and prevent revolutionary change.
What is the significance of the BLACK REPORT?
It made 37 policy recommendations aimed at reducing class inequalities in health.
The report was commissioned by the Labour government but was not implemented by the Conservative government due to cost concerns.
What do MARXISTS believe about the role of sociology?
Sociologists should criticize capitalist social policy and reveal the exploitation underlying capitalism.
They argue that real social problems cannot be resolved through policies of a capitalist state.
According to Feminists, how does the state affect women’s subordination?
The state perpetuates women’s subordination through its social policies, which often assume the conventional nuclear family.
This perspective highlights the patriarchal nature of society.
What impact has feminist research had on education?
It has led to changes in learning materials and teacher training to promote positive images of females and avoid gender bias.
This reflects the broader goal of reducing gender inequality in schools.
What policies do the NEW RIGHT advocate?
- Minimal state intervention
- Marriage preparation and parenting classes
- Support for mothers who stay at home
The New Right believes in enabling personal responsibility rather than state dependency.
True or False: Sociological research always influences government policies.
False.
The influence of sociological research on policy depends on various factors, including political ideology and funding.
Fill in the blank: Sociologists often show little interest in offering _______ to social problems.
practical solutions.
This reflects a focus on understanding rather than directly resolving issues.
What do SOCIAL DEMOCRATS argue against MARXISTS?
They argue that sociological research can lead to progressive policies within the existing capitalist system.
This perspective emphasizes the potential for reform rather than revolution.
