Module Code - Title:
SO4047
-
SOCIOLOGY OF THE WELFARE STATE
Year Last Offered:
2025/6
Hours Per Week:
Grading Type:
Prerequisite Modules:
Rationale and Purpose of the Module:
The key focus and aim of the module is to provide students with an understanding of the welfare state. Students will be familiarised with debates, definitions and theoretical frameworks pertaining to the concept of the welfare state, the different models of welfare in existence, and the need for a rigorous analysis of the welfare state. In addition to enhancing student's awareness and understanding of key sociological theories, concepts and issues, this module is oriented to developing students' ability to use sociology as an analytical tool. It is hoped that students will consider the issues covered in the module as case studies through which they can develop their understanding of the techniques of sociological analysis, which may then be applied to other contexts.
Syllabus:
This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the welfare state. Students will be familiarised with debates, definitions and theoretical frameworks pertaining to the concept of the welfare state, the different models of welfare in existence, and the need for a rigorous analysis of the welfare state. The module examines the development of welfare provision and the different models of welfare throughout Europe & in the USA. Specifically the module will focus on the Irish context as it seeks to examine the structural, cultural and ideological dynamics underpinning the Irish model of welfare provision. We will engage with current and established sociological theories and debates as a means of interpreting and understanding the implications these issues have for the distribution of power, the concept of and the operation of citizenship, processes of social exclusion, the role of social policy, and public discourse.
Learning Outcomes:
Cognitive (Knowledge, Understanding, Application, Analysis, Evaluation, Synthesis)
Developed an awareness of the contemporary sociological theory and literature concerned with these issues.
Evaluated different theoretical approaches to the study of the welfare State
Completed a written assignment on a topic fitting themes from the module
Developed transferable skills including proficiency in the critical analysis of academic texts; academic writing and the ability to create complex and well supported arguments.
Affective (Attitudes and Values)
Acquired an understanding of several substantive areas of concern to sociology in relation to gender, class, welfare and the state
Psychomotor (Physical Skills)
N/A
How the Module will be Taught and what will be the Learning Experiences of the Students:
Research Findings Incorporated in to the Syllabus (If Relevant):
Prime Texts:
Considine, M., & Dukelow, F. (2009)
Irish Social Policy: A critical Introduction
, Dublin: Gill and Macmillan
Castles, F. (2004)
The Future of the Welfare State: Crisis Myths and Crisis Realities
, Oxford: Oxford University Press
Esping-Andersen, G (1990)
Three Worlds of Welfare Capitalism
, Cambridge: Polity Press
Other Relevant Texts:
Combat Poverty Agency (2007)
Welfare Policy and Poverty
, Dublin: Institute of Public Administration and Combat Poverty Agency
Fanning, B., Kennedy, P., et al (eds) (2004)
Theorising Irish Social Policy
, Dublin: University College Press
George, V., and Wilding, P (1985)
Ideology and Social Welfare
, London: Routledge
Lynch, K. (2002)
Equality and Power in Schools, redistribution, recognition and representation
, London: Routledge
Programme(s) in which this Module is Offered:
Semester(s) Module is Offered:
Module Leader:
martin.j.power@ul.ie