Introduction: From Social Problems to Social Policies
Part I: The Development of Social Policy
1 The Social Worldview of Medieval Christianity as Prologue
2 Secular Transitions and Assumptions
3 The Limits of Laissez-Faire Capitalism
4 From Theory to Ideology and Politics
5 Origins of Social Policy in Europe and the United States
6 Comparative Welfare States
Part II: Key Social Policies
7 Inequality and Social Cohesion
8 Poverty
9 Unemployment: The Sword of Damocles
10 Support for Child Raising and Education
11 Retirement and Disability
12 Health Care
13 Race and Immigration
14 Incarceration as Social Policy
Summary: Principles for Progressive Social Policy
James W. Russell is adjunct professor of political science at Portland State University, Hatfield School of Government. He previously served as University Professor of Sociology at Eastern Connecticut State University and is author of eight books, including Social Insecurity: 401(k)s and the Retirement Crisis. He is a regular blogger at the Huffington Post.
James W. Russell has written a sober, well-informed, and temperate
overview of the divergent development of social welfare programs in
Europe and the United States. As these programs have become more
important, the political battles over them have also become more
heated. This book is a remarkably sensible antidote to the inflamed
politics of the moment.
*Frances Fox Piven, distinguished professor of sociology and
political science, CUNY Graduate Center; author of Poor People's
Movements*
This updated, new edition of James Russell's Double Standard
proudly takes its place next to the earlier editions as the
eye-opening, go to text for all those committed to self-education
and the education of others in the political economy of everyday
life.
*Levon Chorbajian, University of Massachusetts; editor of Power and
Inequality: A Critical Reader*
Double Standard is accessible, responsible,
historically-minded, and classically informed comparative social
policy and political sociology. One can only hope others take
Russell's example of how to write and do the social sciences.
*Robert J. S. Ross, Clark University*
In an era of rising income inequality and neoliberal policy
solutions, Russell provides a timely, thoughtful analysis of policy
differences in the United States and Europe. By the end of this
book it is clear how various approaches to social policy are
possible but carry 'dramatically different consequences' for
individuals and society.
*Jennifer Hook, University of Southern California*
In this closely argued, detailed, and meticulous book Russell
compares the development of social policies in the United States
and in European states, pointing out areas where there are
significant differences of approach but also those where one has
borrowed from another. The strong historical and philosophical
basis for Russell's analysis continues to make this a novel,
engaging, and challenging addition to the comparative literature
and an important source book for scholars of the US welfare
system.
*Gary Craig, professor emeritus, University of Hull, United
Kingdom*
Russell allows American students to see that there are a variety of
forms of capitalism, some more humane than others. Kudos to Russell
for making a complex topic understandable, even enjoyable, without
over-simplifying.
*Peter Dreier, E.P. Clapp Distinguished Professor of Politics,
Occidental College*
In remarkably clear and succinct language, Russell sets forth the
contributions of central social policy theorists and highlights
critical differences in how the United States and European nations
address social and economic problems. His treatment of the
ideological “isms” is especially useful.
*Robert B. Hudson, Boston University*
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