Social Policy

Social policy analysis studies the design, implementation, and evaluation of policies addressing welfare, social needs, and inequality.

Scope

It covers the analysis of social programs, needs and provision, redistribution, and the evaluation of social-policy interventions.

Core questions

• How are social policies designed and evaluated?
• How should social needs be met?
• What are the effects of social programs?
• How is redistribution organized?

Key concepts

• Social provision
• Needs and redistribution
• Policy analysis
• Program evaluation
• Universal vs selective benefits
• Social administration

Key theories

The study of social policy

Titmuss founded the academic analysis of social policy and welfare provision.

Practical policy analysis

Bardach systematized the steps of applied policy analysis.

History

Social policy analysis grew from Titmuss's founding work into a field combining normative analysis of welfare with applied, evidence-based policy evaluation.

Debates

Universal versus targeted provision

Whether social benefits should be universal or means-tested.

Key figures

• Richard Titmuss
• Eugene Bardach

Seminal works

• titmuss-1958
• bardach-2012

Frequently asked questions

What is social policy?

The study and design of public policies and programs that address welfare and social needs — health, income support, housing, and care.