Comparative Social Policy: Theory and Research (Introducing Social Policy) [Hardcover]

P. Kennett (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0335201245 | ISBN-13: 978-0335201242 | Publication Date: August 31, 2001 | Edition: 1

This text explores the new context of social policy and considers how cross-national theory and research can respond to the challenges facing welfare. These challenges include changing demographic trends and economic conditions in line with new needs and risks emerging within and across societies. The book extends and deepens cross-national research by exploring the theoretical and conceptual frameworks through which social policy and welfare systems have been understood. It critically examines different policy processes and welfare outcomes, as well as the ethnocentricism and cultural imperialism which has permeated cross-national epistomology and methodology. The author concludes by reflecting on how cross-national research can illuminate the complex and diverse processes leading to discrimination and inequality across borders. This leads to a consideration of how it can contribute to the implementation of welfare provision appropriate to the social and economic conditions of contemporary societies.

Editorial Reviews

Review

“This is an accomplished, readable, and very usable volume. The book will become necessary reading and a work of reference for students of social policy and education for many years to come.” – British Journal of Educational Studies (Brit Jnl of Educational Studies 20031028)

“…this book does a superb job of both highlighting the key social justice concerns and controversies over the last fifty years and providing an overview of education policy developments over the same period.” – British Journal of Sociology of Education (Brit Jnl of Sociology of Education 20031028)

“This book must become the classic text for students of education, social and welfare policies. Sally Tomlinson, doyenne of policy-orientated education and social research, has written with commendable clarity and comprehensiveness a superb book on British education.” – Journal of Social Policy (Jnl of Social Policy 20030501)

“The first six chapters of the book alone will undoubtedly become an indispensable resource for students and others working in the field of education as a unique reference for education legislation between 1945 and 2000.” – Local Government Studies (Local Government Studies Jnl 20030110)

"Education in Post war Society is a powerful, valuable and thought-provoking book.

It would benefit anyone who sought to understand the reasons and actions behind the present educational system.

..this book would not only be of value to educators and their students, administrators and managers, officers of Local Education Authorities and Elected Members of Councils who have responsibility for education would also find this book extremely enlightening." - Barbara Pavey (Escalate Learning and Teaching )

"...provides an excellent overview of educational policy in post-war Britain.

Education in a Post War Society has already become an indispensable tool in my teaching. It is extremely user-friendly with concise chronologies at the beginning of the first six chapters and boxed summaries of all the major legislation.

...great text for teaching-Go and buy it. - Diane Reay (Journal of Education Policy ) --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

About the Author

Patricia Kennett is a lecturer in comparative policy studies in the School for Policy Studies at the University of Bristol. She has published material on the comparative dimensions of homelessness, citizenship and social exclusion, as well as the coping strategies of households with negative equity. Her current research interests include homelessness and social welfare in Japan; housing in the Asia Pacific region; and comparative welfare systems.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 192 pages
• Publisher: Open University Pres; 1 edition (August 31, 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0335201245
• ISBN-13: 978-0335201242
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.2 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.9 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #10,235,064 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)