Sociology & Social Policy | Sociology for A Level - Year 13 PDF Download

Feminist and Marxist Perspective

Feminist Perspective

• Feminists view society as rooted in conflict, characterized by a patriarchal structure that privileges men at the expense of women. 
• They argue that social policies reinforce female subordination by promoting structures that maintain male dominance.

Example

For instance, state policies often prioritize the nuclear family, providing benefits to married couples. This approach pushes women into potentially exploitative family dynamics and reinforces traditional, gendered roles within relationships.

Marxist Perspective

• Marxists perceive society as divided by class conflict, where the ruling capitalist class exploits the working class. 
• The state, representing the interests of the ruling class, designs social policies to uphold capitalist interests. 
• Through ideological law-making and selective enforcement, the state further oppresses the working class.

The ‘Caring Face’ of Capitalism

• Marxists argue that social policies create a deceptive ‘caring face’ for capitalism, masking exploitation by suggesting the state is concerned for the poor. 
• These policies distract from systemic inequalities and prevent class conflict from escalating.

Example

For example, introducing a minimum wage creates an illusion that the capitalist system prioritizes the well-being of the poor. This measure helps avert revolutionary sentiments by mitigating visible class tensions.

Functionalist and New Right Perspective

Functionalist Perspective

• Functionalists see society as built on shared values and consensus, free from major conflict. 
• Émile Durkheim argued that scientific research could identify societal problems and inform solutions, guiding the state to develop effective social policies based on objective data.

Piecemeal Social Engineering

• Functionalists believe the state serves the collective interests of society, with policies designed to enhance societal efficiency and stability. 
• They advocate for a cautious, issue-by-issue approach to policy-making, known as ‘piecemeal social engineering.’

New Right Perspective

• The New Right emphasizes minimal state intervention in societal affairs, opposing government involvement in areas like family, income support, education, and healthcare. 
• They argue that such interference undermines personal responsibility and individual choice.

The Welfare State

• Charles Murray contends that the welfare state creates ‘perverse incentives,’ fostering dependency and eroding self-reliance. 
• The New Right calls for sociologists to propose alternative policies that counteract the negative effects of existing welfare systems.

New Policy

• The New Right advocates for policies that restore individual and family responsibility, encouraging people to take charge of their own welfare rather than relying on state support.