Response paper

Introduction

 Neoliberal government : USA, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK have adopted tri-pronged
attack in the institution of the welfare state :
1. Cut back and reduce the scope of welfare state services
2. Stigmatize so called welfare dependency
3. Remove a right based conception of welfare benefits
4. Substitute publicly subsidized private decisions
5. Take the core service institution (school, hospital, primary health care)
 Neoliberals offer privatized and privative conception of freedom ( centres on ownership of
private property) which blurred republican tradition .
 Republican approach : collectivist, publicly inclusive, and relational, centre on the state,
individuals personally secure and free from domination
 Early modern tradition of political republicanism : state power to protect the individual
against subjection
 Welfare state: elaborate idea of personal security in offering publicly provided welfare
services that enabled individuals to feel secure in managing their lives, parenting their
children, and taking care older age and disable people.
 TH Marshal : Citizenship and social class : welfare state form of republicanism : status of
freedom
 Feminist critics focus on Marshal aspects that do not meet contemporary feminist standards
of inclusion
 The idea of freedom is not adequate to feminist criteria for inclusion
 The question : will the feminist want to revise the idea or substitute with another?
 Problem with Marshal : welfare state republicanism as in republican political philosophy =
institutional design =substitute institutional order of market society.
 There is opportunity to reconsider the normative rationale for the welfare state as the
backdrop of gender and social policy
 Marshal concept status of freedom : republican emphases on freedom from domination and
personal security should be of interest feminist political philoshophy
 Conception of the welfare state dependent on a political philoshophy : social policy depends
on intellectual framework.
 Marshall : discourse is state centred, argues that “socialist” objective of basic => qualitative
or citizen equality is to be primary => can not simply co exist with economic class or
quantitative inequality
 Marshall thinks that state is “political power” : the normal method of establishing social
rights is by the extension of political power. Political power= sovereign power
 For Marshall : rights are real only as they are instituted by the state or political power
 Status of freedom and the state : go together

Re-Evaluating Marshall Argument in the Current Historical Context

 Marshall refers to the economist Lionel Robbin about welfare state and the mixed economy.
 For Robbins welfare state-thinking : simple minded error=> the logic of a market economy is
more important than practical rationality
 Marshall reject Robbins , Marshall demonstrates practical rationality. The problem is not the
logic
  Robbins thinks that public policy should be logical and follow the logic of institution of a
modern market economy.
 The role of the state is to institutionalize the principles and rules of a market economy
 Equality claim of late 20th century feminism: all adults achieve economic self-sufficiency
through participation in the market economy

The Status of Freedom

 Foundation of citizenship is the status of freedom according to marshall

 Feminist critics the androcentric character of Marshall arguments
 For example the patriarchal type of family. Men dominated women in the family rather the
collaborative partnership (Locke and Hegel)
 The hierarchical status order provide negative against Marshall about qualitative equality or
equal standing as citizen.
 Correction Marshal arguments that status of freedom is not the same as civil rights but
precedes civil rights
 Independence means very different from status of freedom which performed by liberal idea
of the individual as natural free.
 Liberal discourse naturalizes , privatizes and de-socializes freedom reduced to a contracted
form of civil rights

Social Rights

 Market freedom must be defended for the status of freedom. However, powerful force of
liberalism pull this component away from the status of freedom and equates it with freedom
as such.
 Marshal accept that social inequality is a problem
 Q : Where do the social rights fit into this story?
 Basic equality or an equity of citizenship is not an offer if people are unable to support
themselves that they have access to all the services that constitutes civilized living (the status
of freedom)

Conclusion

 Feminist think that Marshall argument fitted the mid 20 centuries about male-breadwinner
and women as caregivers.
 Reason why we should be aware about his argument is limited in both universal ethical
import and contemporary relevance :
1. Male-breadwinner/maternalist familial model, welfare state =>making personal security
possible for all members of family (children allowance and medical treatment)
2. Welfare states involves understanding equality in class terms. Status of equality means
universal ethical conception of how human being related to each other as individuals who
are to count as equal citizens of the social.
3. Neoliberalism accommodate feminism in the form of equal opportunity discourse of market
freedom but also feminist making alliances with neoliberal and social conservative elite.

What is the main problem or issue?

The main problem/issue highlighted in the text is the impact of neoliberalism on the welfare state
and gender equality. The text discusses how neoliberal policies have led to the dismantling of the
welfare state in countries like the USA, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. This shift towards market
principles and privatization of social services has raised concerns about the accessibility, quality, and
equity of social security and welfare benefits, particularly for marginalized populations, including
women.

Furthermore, feminist critics have pointed out that neoliberalism exacerbates gender inequalities by
undervaluing unpaid care work, privatizing essential social services, and eroding social protections.
The emergence of "corporate feminism" within neoliberal frameworks has also been criticized for
focusing on individual advancement in corporate settings rather than addressing broader social and
economic inequalities that impact women.

Overall, the text highlights the need for feminist responses to neoliberalism that advocate for
gender-inclusive policies, promote solidarity and collective action, challenge corporate feminism,
center intersectionality, support grassroots movements, reimagine economic systems, and educate
communities about the gendered impacts of neoliberal policies. By addressing these issues, feminists
aim to counter the negative effects of neoliberalism on gender equality and social justice.

What is the author central claim, argument, or point?

The central claim, argument, or point of the text "Gender, social policy and the idea of the welfare
state" by Anna Yeatman revolves around the intersection of gender, social policy, and the welfare
state within the context of neoliberalism. The author argues that understanding the impact of
neoliberal policies on gender equality and social welfare systems is crucial for promoting inclusive
and just societies.

Yeatman emphasizes the importance of considering the historical context of the welfare state project
and its evolution in response to neoliberal challenges. The text underscores the need for feminist
perspectives to critique neoliberal policies that perpetuate gender inequalities and advocate for
more inclusive social welfare frameworks.

Furthermore, the author highlights the ethical considerations surrounding social policy and welfare
state design, particularly in relation to the universal ethical conception of equality. Yeatman suggests
that a relational approach to freedom, grounded in principles of social justice and citizenship, can
inform feminist political philosophy and guide efforts to address power differentials and wealth
inequalities within social policy frameworks.

Overall, the central claim of the text is that analyzing the intersection of gender, social policy, and the
welfare state through a critical feminist lens is essential for understanding and addressing the
challenges posed by neoliberalism and advancing gender equality within contemporary social
welfare systems.

What assumptions from author?

Based on the text "Gender, social policy and the idea of the welfare state" by Anna Yeatman, some
assumptions made by the author include:

1. *Historical Context Significance:* The author assumes that understanding the historical context of
the welfare state project is crucial for evaluating the impact of neoliberalism on social policy and
gender equality. This assumption suggests that historical perspectives provide valuable insights into
the evolution of social welfare systems and the challenges they face in contemporary times.

2. *Feminist Critique:* Yeatman assumes that a feminist critique of neoliberal policies is necessary
for identifying and addressing gender inequalities within social policy frameworks. This assumption
implies that feminist perspectives offer unique insights into the intersection of gender, power
dynamics, and social welfare, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive policy approaches.

3. *Ethical Framework:* The author assumes that ethical considerations, such as the universal ethical
conception of equality and principles of social justice, should underpin discussions on social policy
and welfare state design. This assumption suggests that ethical frameworks play a central role in
shaping inclusive and just social welfare systems that prioritize equality and human rights.

4. *Intersectionality:* Yeatman assumes that an intersectional approach to gender, considering its

interactions with other social identities like race, class, and sexuality, is essential for understanding
the complexities of social inequality. This assumption underscores the importance of recognizing and
addressing multiple forms of discrimination within social policy analysis.

5. *Neoliberal Critique:* The author assumes a critical stance towards neoliberalism, suggesting that
market-centric policies have negative implications for gender equality and social welfare. This
assumption implies a belief that neoliberal ideologies prioritize market freedoms over social justice,
leading to the erosion of welfare state institutions and exacerbating inequalities.

By acknowledging these assumptions, readers can better understand the author's perspective and
the underlying beliefs that shape her analysis of gender, social policy, and the welfare state within
the context of neoliberalism.

What evidence presented?

In the text "Gender, social policy and the idea of the welfare state" by Anna Yeatman, the author
presents evidence to support her arguments and claims. Some of the evidence presented in the text
includes:

1. *Historical Examples:* Yeatman provides historical examples, such as the post-war welfare state
initiatives in Britain under the Attlee government, to illustrate the evolution of social policy and
welfare systems. These examples demonstrate how social welfare programs have addressed the
needs of various groups, including women, children, and individuals with disabilities.

2. *Scholarly References:* The author references the work of scholars like Ann Orloff and T.H.
Marshall to support her arguments on the intersection of gender, social policy, and neoliberalism. By
citing these scholars, Yeatman strengthens her analysis and situates her arguments within existing
academic discourse.

3. *Quotations:* The text includes direct quotations from sources such as William Beveridge's
writings on full employment and social security. These quotations provide concrete examples of how
key figures in social policy and welfare state development have articulated their ideas and principles.

4. *Comparative Analysis:* Yeatman engages in comparative analysis, contrasting different

perspectives on the welfare state, gender equality, and neoliberalism. By examining and comparing
various viewpoints, the author presents a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding
these issues.

5. *Conceptual Frameworks:* The author introduces and discusses conceptual frameworks such as
the universal ethical conception of equality, feminist critiques of neoliberalism, and the relational
approach to freedom. These frameworks serve as evidence to support the author's arguments and
shape the theoretical underpinnings of the text.

6. *Policy Implications:* Yeatman discusses the policy implications of neoliberalism on social welfare
systems, highlighting the impact of market-driven approaches on gender equality and social justice.
By analyzing policy trends and outcomes, the author provides evidence of how neoliberal policies
have influenced social policy frameworks.

By presenting a range of evidence, including historical examples, scholarly references, quotations,

comparative analysis, conceptual frameworks, and policy implications, Anna Yeatman supports her
arguments and enriches the discussion on gender, social policy, and the welfare state within the
context of neoliberalism.

What are the strength and weakness?

What are possible counterarguments?

Certainly! Here are some points of criticism that can be raised regarding the text "Gender, social
policy and the idea of the welfare state":

Limited Scope: The text primarily focuses on the impact of neoliberalism on the welfare state and
gender equality in a few Western countries (USA, Australia, New Zealand, UK), potentially
overlooking the global diversity of neoliberal policies and their effects on gender dynamics in other
regions.

Theoretical Depth: While the text discusses the intersection of gender, social policy, and
neoliberalism, it may lack in-depth theoretical analysis or empirical evidence to support some of its
arguments and claims, which could weaken the overall academic rigor of the discussion.

Alternative Perspectives: The text predominantly presents a feminist critique of neoliberalism, but it
could benefit from incorporating diverse perspectives, including those that may offer nuanced or
contrasting views on the relationship between gender, social policy, and neoliberal economic
frameworks.

Practical Solutions: While the text outlines feminist responses to neoliberalism, it could provide more
concrete and actionable recommendations for policymakers, activists, and stakeholders to address
the gendered impacts of neoliberal policies and promote gender equality within social welfare
systems.

Intersectionality: While the text acknowledges the importance of intersectionality in understanding

gender inequalities, it may not fully explore the complex intersections of gender with race, class,
sexuality, and other identities, which are crucial for a comprehensive analysis of social policy and
welfare state dynamics.

Historical Context: The text emphasizes the historical context of the welfare state project but could
delve deeper into historical nuances and contextual factors that have shaped gender relations, social
policies, and welfare systems over time, providing a more nuanced understanding of the issues at
hand.

Policy Implications: While the text discusses the negative impacts of neoliberalism on gender
equality, it could further elaborate on specific policy implications and recommendations for creating
more inclusive, gender-sensitive social policies within neoliberal frameworks.

By addressing these points of criticism, the text could enhance its analytical depth, theoretical
robustness, inclusivity of perspectives, practical relevance, intersectional understanding, historical
context, and policy implications in discussing gender, social policy, and the welfare state within the
context of neoliberalism.

Why are the problems and arguments interesting or important?

The problems discussed in the text "Gender, social policy and the idea of the welfare state" are
important for several reasons:
1. *Gender Inequality:* Addressing the impact of neoliberal policies on gender equality is crucial for
promoting social justice and ensuring equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of gender
identity. By highlighting the gendered implications of social policy and welfare state frameworks, the
text sheds light on systemic inequalities that need to be addressed.

2. *Social Welfare:* Understanding how neoliberalism affects social welfare systems is essential for
safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable populations, including women, children, and individuals
with disabilities. By examining the challenges faced by these groups within neoliberal contexts,
policymakers can work towards creating more inclusive and effective social welfare programs.

3. *Intersectionality:* Recognizing the intersectionality of gender with other social identities such as
race, class, and sexuality is critical for developing holistic approaches to social policy. By
acknowledging the complex interplay of various forms of discrimination and privilege, stakeholders
can work towards policies that address multiple dimensions of inequality.

4. *Historical Context:* Reflecting on the historical evolution of the welfare state project and its
response to neoliberal pressures provides insights into the long-term implications of policy decisions.
By learning from past experiences and understanding the context in which social policies were
developed, policymakers can make more informed decisions for the future.

5. *Ethical Considerations:* Considering the ethical dimensions of social policy and welfare state
frameworks is essential for promoting fairness, justice, and human rights. By engaging with ethical
questions related to equality, freedom, and institutional design, stakeholders can ensure that policies
uphold fundamental values and principles.

6. *Global Perspectives:* Exploring the global impact of neoliberalism on gender and social policy
allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by diverse communities
worldwide. By taking a global perspective, stakeholders can learn from different contexts, share best
practices, and work towards more inclusive and equitable policy solutions.

Overall, addressing the problems highlighted in the text is important for advancing gender equality,
promoting social justice, and creating more inclusive and effective social policy frameworks that
prioritize the well-being of all individuals in society.

Tambahan

https://indoprogress.com/2014/02/kegalauan-feminisme-di-hadapan-neoliberalisme/

Apakah neoliberal itu?

Di bawah panji neoliberalisme, proyek kesejahteraan diajukan sebagai bentuk rekonsiliasi antara
komitmen pada pasar bebas dan politik inklusi. Berpijak pada konsepsi liberal tentang otonomi
individual, negara neoliberal mengembangkan wawasan bahwa semua orang, tanpa terkecuali,
mempunyai kemampuan dalam mengembangkan diri. Kewirausahaan warga dipupuk sebagai
pengganti negara yang telah kehilangan peranannya dalam perekonomian. Pada tataran politik, tidak
sedikit rezim neoliberal mengambil corak populis (atau neopopulis).

Apa hubungan neoliberal dengan feminisme?

Di hadapan rezim neoliberal, feminisme menjadi galau karena kritiknya atas empat elemen
kapitalisme-negara, sebagaimana disebut di atas, ternyata diambil alih oleh neoliberalisme. Nancy
Fraser mencatat paling tidak empat hal mengenai hal ini. Pertama, kritik feminisme atas ekonomisme
kapitalisme-negara, di mana ‘pembangunan’ dimengerti hanya dalam kerangka pertumbuhan
ekonomi, justru digunakan oleh neoliberalisme yang berusaha mengalihkan perjuangan sosial-
ekonomi menjadi perjuangan identitas. Kedua, kritik feminisme atas androsentrisme kapitalisme-
negara, yang ditanggapi dengan pembukaan kesempatan kerja besar-besaran bagi buruh perempuan
upahan, justru dimanfaatkan oleh neoliberalisme sebagai legitimasi bagi akumulasi modal mereka.
Ketiga, kritik feminisme atas etatisme atau paternalism negara-kesejahteraan justru dipakai balik oleh
kritik neoliberalisme atas ‘negara pembantu’ (nanny state) yang menguatkan argumen mereka
tentang pentingnya kewirausahaan dan proyek-proyek kredit keuangan mikro. Terakhir, keempat,
kritik feminisme atas Westphalianisme pada kenyataannya satu nafas dengan proyek
kosmopolitanisme neoliberal yang sedang berusaha mendelegitimasi kepentingan nasional yang
terkait dengan negara-bangsa tertentu.