SOCIOL 317
Sociology of the Welfare State
Please note: this is archived course information from 2016 for SOCIOL 317.
Description
This course examines the differing origins and possible futures of welfare states. Using a range of theoretical viewpoints, the course considers the historical shift from a Keynesian welfare state to a neoliberal state and questions whether recent "Third Way" policies provide a solution to future welfare needs. The course is comparative but includes a significant focus on Aotearoa New Zealand.
COURSE AIMS
At the completion of the course, the student should have gained knowledge and understanding about:
- The historical development of the welfare state in New Zealand and internationally;
- Where the New Zealand welfare state is situated in comparison with other countries;
- Key changes in the values driving welfare states;
- Ways in which these changes:
o maintain or challenge gendered and racialised assumptions;
o impact upon citizens and citizenship;
o reflect different political perspectives and institutional histories.
In addition to standard writing and literacy skills, students should also have developed specific research skills appropriate to a course that examines welfare state policy. These include:
- Gathering and synthesising concepts and ideas from a wide range of academic and other relevant sources;
- Constructing and presenting an appropriate argument about policy issues as the basis for assessment tasks;
- Understanding that policy documents are far from ‘neutral’ but reflect differing political values and ideals.
Availability 2016
Semester 1
Lecturer(s)
Lecturer(s) Dr Louise Humpage
Reading/Texts
A course reader will be made available if required.
Assessment
Coursework + exam
Points
SOCIOL 317: 15 points
Prerequisites
30 points at Stage II in Sociology, or SOCSCIPH 200