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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
It reads like an introductory textbook for students or an accessible social policy book for the politically interested....By introducing the reader to the fundamental political conceptions and main social policy areas, th book provides a helpful introduction for those not familiar with social policy thinking and development.
Praise from the first edition:
James Russell restores my faith in sociology as the best line of inquiry into nagging political questions that too often get assigned to narrow-minded economists. We need books like this to combat academic provincialism as much as to correct social inequality.
It reads like an introductory textbook for students or an accessible social policy book for the politically interested....By introducing the reader to the fundamental political conceptions and main social policy areas, th book provides a helpful introduction for those not familiar with social policy thinking and development.
In this earnest, constructive book, Russell provides a systematic sketch of the way Europeans and Americans conceive of socail welfare and deliver it in different ways. Recommended.