Foundations of Social Policy: Social Justice in Human Perspective

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Reflecting an emerging consensus that social justice is a primary mission of the social work profession, this innovative text provides a thorough grounding in policy analysis with extensive coverage of policy practice and a unique emphasis on the broad issues and human dilemmas inherent in the pursuit of social justice. Organized in four parts, the book introduces several philosophical perspectives on what constitutes social justice, and identifies the values and assumptions reflected in contemporary policy debates. Part I provides a framework for policy analysis and policy practice, as well as foundation content related to the structure and role of government in the United States. Part II offers a theoretical framework for determining when personal disadvantage is considered a social problem. It then focuses on social problems that constitute widely shared risks, including poverty, physical illness, mental illness, and disability. Part III introduces theories of discrimination and oppression and explores the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, including people of color, gays and lesbians, children, women, working Americans, and the elderly. Part IV offers a "Glance to The Future," examining emerging policy issues such as inequality, incarceration as a means of social control, globalization, and international governance. Key Feature The text includes abundant theoretical material on oppression and collective action and devotes considerable attention to the explanation of divergent philosophical perspectives. Numerous interesting and relevant case studies are included to illustrate key concepts and aid student understanding of policies and programs by providing concrete examples of individual experiences. A thoughtful presentation and analysis of international context, with comparative information and discussion of pertinent issues such as globalization and governance, gives students a broad basis for developing a more complete and nuanced understanding of U.S. social policy. In addition to rigorous and thorough theoretical content, the text maintains a pragmatic approach, informed by advocates and practitioners throughout the country, to provide students with essential practical preparation for success in their careers. Special material in every chapter, including discussion questions to encourage critical thinking, references to interactive Web-based exercises, and lists of resources for further exploration, all help students comprehend and apply the course content more quickly and effectively The Helping Professions Learning Center (HPLC), a centralized online resource that allows students to build their skills and gain even more confidence and familiarity with the principles that govern the life of the helping professional, is now available to students when bundled with this text. Instructors have free access to the HPLC materials through the password-protected Instructor's Companion Site. For more detailed information, look for HPLC in the supplement descriptions. Table of Contents Part I: POLICY ANALYSIS: FRAMEWORK AND TOOLS. 1. Social Justice and Social Workers. 2. The Government's Role. 3. Policy Analysis and Policy Practice. Part II: COLLECTIVE RESPONSES TO SOCIAL PROBLEMS. 4. The Social Security Act. 5. Poverty. 6. Physical Illness. 7. Mental Illness. 8. Disability. Part III: VULNERABLE POPULATIONS: DISCRIMINATION AND OPPRESSION. 9. People of Color. 10. Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgendered Individuals. 11. Children. 12. Women. 13. Working Americans. 14. The Elderly. Part IV: CYCLES OF LIBERATION. 15. A Glance Toward the Future.