| Equality Essay, Research Paper
Social policy
covers a social wide range of social welfare provisions,? that the vast majority of society are able
use.? As Mishra notes ?social policy? social arrangements,
mechanisms that are typically concerned with the distribution of resources in
accordance with some criterion of need?. (Loney 1983; pg. 129).? The position of equality would be concerned
with how the resources are distributed so that those in need or disadvantaged,
are in an equal position as the rest of society.? Whether or not this is a possible scenario will be explored.? Different theorists would be in favour or
against the notion that social policy should be concerned with creating
equality, for various reasons that will be elaborated later on in the essay.The principle of
equality, has no clear or accurate definition but from a broad perspective a
possible one could be, ?equality means
the removal of disadvantage.?
Egalitarian policies may aim for equal treatment, without prejudice or
stigma; equal opportunity, the means to achieve socially desired ends??? (Spicker 1988; pg. 125).? Many of the supporters will aim for
egalitarians concepts of equality within the social policy sphere.? Many of the social welfare provisions / services
are funded by public expenditure, the increase of expenditure has been
justified as its aim has been in pursuit of equality.There are five
main distinctive types of equality, that are suitable objectives for proposing
distribution of public expenditure. 1. Equality
of public expenditure- public expenditure on particular? social service allocated equally between all
the relevant? individuals.? For example focusing on imbalances between
regions in hospital spending, or differences in public expenditure between
different types of schools. 2. Equality
of final income- public expenditure on social services allocated in such a way
as to favour the poor.? Allowing the
less advantaged final income to be brought into line with those of the rich.? Public expenditure should be re-distributive
as it is a component of the welfare state which is a system of redistribution. 3. Equality
of use- public expenditure on social services are allocated so amounts of
service used by all relevant individual s are the same.? For example this could be an objective
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