Double Standard: Social Policy in Europe and the United States

(Paperback, Fourth Edition)

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In Double Standard, James W. Russell shows how and why different models of social and welfare policy developed in the United States and Europe. The fourth edition has been revised and updated throughout to reflect recent political developments that are having significant policy consequences, including the Brexit vote in the UK and the election of Donald Trump in the U.S. The fourth edition also features additional material on Karl Polanyi, European party politics, disability policy, and more. Part One, The Development of Social Policy, discusses the factors that contributed to the different shapes of social policy in the U.S. and Europe. Part Two, Key Social Policies, considers how different counties have handled commons social problems including poverty, unemployment, child and family support, retirement and disability, health care, race and immigration, and incarceration. These different social policy orientations have produced disparate social ways of lifeways of life that are now in contention for the future of Western societies. A complimentary test bank including discussion/essay questions and multiple choice questions is available. Please email textbooks@rowman.com for more information.

Reviews

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. -- Frances Fox Piven, distinguished professor of sociology and political science, CUNY Graduate Center; author of Poor People's Movements
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. -- Levon Chorbajian, University of Massachusetts; editor of Power and Inequality: A Critical Reader
Double Standardis 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. -- Robert J. S. Ross, Clark University
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. -- Jennifer Hook, University of Southern California
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. -- Gary Craig, professor emeritus, University of Hull, United Kingdom
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. -- Peter Dreier, E.P. Clapp Distinguished Professor of Politics, Occidental College
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. -- Robert B. Hudson, Boston University

Author Bio

James W. Russell is adjunct professor of political science at Portland State University, Hatfield School of Government. He previously served as University Professor of Sociology at Eastern Connecticut State University and is author of eight books, including Social Insecurity: 401(k)s and the Retirement Crisis. He is a regular blogger at the Huffington Post.