Foundations of Social Policy: Social Justice in Human Perspective (with InfoTrac)

Foundations of Social Policy: Social Justice in Human Perspective (with InfoTrac)

Reflecting an emerging consensus that social justice is a primary mission of the social work profession, this social policy text explicitly addresses 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. The second part offers a theoretical framework for determining when a 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 oppression and explores the challenges faced by populations that have faced discrimination and oppression, including people of color, gays and lesbians, children, women, and the elderly. The final part offers a "Glance to The Future," examining emerging policy issues such as U.S. labor policy and inequality, incarceration as a means of social control, globalization, and international governance. "I would use this book in Spring 2005 if it is available. I very much like the current content, and by reviewing this book I have become more familiar with its organization. I also like the information about social welfare and program history...Comprehensive, factual, good historical and philosophical content, good discussion of policy analysis frameworks and policy practice. With this book, I may just need one policy book!" "It does cover a lot of material needed in a social welfare foundation course, and it incorporates social justice and diversity content. It includes content students need for knowledge and skill development..Yes, I would be inclined to use the text in the future." A native of California, Amanda S. Barusch completed her B.A. in Psychology at Reed College and her M.S.W. and Ph.D. in Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley. Her primary research and teaching interests are in the fields of social policy and aging. She has investigated topics ranging from interpersonal relations to international policy comparisons. She has published articles in leading North American journals and is the author or coauthor of seven books. Dr. Barusch joined the faculty at the University of Utah College of Social Work in 1985. She has served as Associate Dean for Research and Doctoral Studies (2003-2007) and Director of the Social Research Institute (1995-1998); and is now Associate Dean for Research. She serves as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Gerontological Social Work and is on the editorial board of the Journal of Poverty. She is a fellow in the Gerontological Society of America. Since June of 2007 she has also held an appointment as Professor of Gerontology at the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, where she continues to serve on a part-time basis. Used Book in Good Condition