bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The heterogeneity of cash‐in hand work
Authors: Williams Colin C. , Windebank Jan
Published: June 2007

To evaluate critically whether under a market system, monetary exchange is always and everywhere based on profit‐seeking behaviour, this article examines cash‐in‐hand work, a form of activity conventionally conceptualised as low paid employment heavily imbued with profit motivations on the part of both the consumer and supplier. Reporting data gathered through structured face‐to‐face interviews with 511 households in affluent and deprived neighbourhoods in two English cities, this article reveals that although most cash‐in‐hand work conducted by people living in affluent suburbs is conducted under social relations akin to employment for profit‐motivated purposes, the vast majority of cash‐in‐hand work in deprived neighbourhoods is undertaken by and for kin, neighbours and friends for a range of cooperative reasons under social relations more akin to unpaid community exchange. Given this heterogeneity of cash‐in‐hand work, this article questions whether seeking its eradication through more stringent regulations is the appropriate policy response, especially in deprived neighbourhoods.
Social capital in a tolerant society? a response to treasurer Costello’s presentation to the Sydney Institute
Authors: Jorgensen Bradley
Published: June 2007

On 16 July 2003 the Australian Government’s Treasurer, the Honourable Peter Costello, addressed the Sydney Institute on his vision for a tolerant Australian society. Drawing from Putnam’s research Costello argued that tolerance will flow from an active voluntary sector. However, Costello’s proposed model for a “tolerant” society fails to acknowledge that all behaviour is strategic and that voluntary association based on disinterested action is not possible. Ultimately, Treasurer Costello’s notion of tolerant society fuelled by an active voluntary sector may not lead to his desired end. Indeed, the promotion of voluntary association may contribute to the ongoing exclusion of citizens with low social capital. Amid the dynamism of the modern era some citizens such as ageing workers, slow or ineffective learners and women may be especially at risk. Accordingly, rather than advocating a policy approach that seeks to build inclusiveness through an active voluntary sector this paper recommends a policy approach that explores ways in which to strengthen learning and the wider involvement of individuals through both formal and informal means.
Is a heftier administrative law required to prevent state hollowing?: the issue of transborder water pollution
Authors: Coates Breena E.
Published: June 2007

Concerns regarding the management of water and air pollution in border regions – such as the California‐Mexico Border, is an old issue, which has bubbled up to its current crisis situation. Health and safety disasters, stemming from water pollution on both sides of the border mount as do related costs to local financially‐strapped communities in California. One such impacted community is Imperial County, California, which must deal with the consequences stemming from the “dirtiest river in the United States”. This refers to The New River which enters the US through Mexico. While NAFTA has promoted the growth of globalized companies and industries in the region, progress has added to pollution. Regulation is far from evenly matched in the two countries. To manage negative spillover effects from globalism across borders, the time has come for development of new administrative law, with strict penalties for violators. This article uses the impact of pollution from The New River to discuss the hollowing of our nation‐state’s democratically‐derived mandate against pollution. It also raises the question of whether we have the stomach to push for new administrative law and risk multinational flight to other more accommodating regions, or live with the status quo and its serious human and environmental consequences.
Introduction: the impact of immigrants on American institutions
Authors: Kurien Prema
Published: June 2007

Looks at how immigration in the USA has changed so that by the late 1980s almost three‐quarters of a million legal immigrants were entering the country ever year, and how by the 1980s this had increased to 9 million! Investigates the changing birthrate by which foreign born residents now account for one in five births in the USA. Posits that Islam is the fastest growing religion and that the USA has metamorphosed from being a “Christian” country to be the most religiously diverse nation in the world.
The formation of post‐suburban communities: Koreatown and Little Saigon, Orange County
Authors: Trinh Vo Linda , Yu Danico Mary
Published: June 2007

Examines the demographic transformation of Orange County, Los Angeles, USA and the designation of districts known as Little Saigon and Koreatown. Contends that Orange County is fifth in the USA for fastest growing Asian communities. Uses a comparative social ecology approach to show how Koreans and Vietnamese have managed to establish their ethnic communities. Finally discusses the challenges faced in sustaining their communities, given the resistance from Anglo residents for “foreigners”.
Learning in two languages: Spanish‐English immersion in U.S. public schools
Authors: Linton April
Published: June 2007

Observes that, in some public schools in the USA, dual language instead of English only is being promoted as a plus and not the drawback it was once seen to be. Stresses there is still opposition to dual language or other languages being used in the US. Reckons that educated parents are the likeliest to seek dual‐language education for their children. Uses tables and figures to show the dual language options and variances. Concludes that there is potential for two‐way immersion to expand.
Risk, vulnerability, and asset‐based approach to disaster risk management
Authors: Vatsa Krishna S.
Published: June 2007

Households are exposed to a wide array of risks, characterized by a known or unknown probability distribution of events. Disasters are one of these risks at the extreme end. Understanding the nature of these risks is critical to recommending appropriate mitigation measures. A household’s resilience in resisting the negative outcomes of these risky events is indicative of its level of vulnerability. Vulnerability has emerged as the most critical concept in disaster studies, with several attempts at defining, measuring, indexing and modeling it. The paper presents the concept and meanings of risk and vulnerability as they have evolved in different disciplines. Building on these basic concepts, the paper suggests that assets are the key to reducing risk and vulnerability. Households resist and cope with adverse consequences of disasters and other risks through the assets that they can mobilize in face of shocks. Asustainable strategy for disaster reduction must therefore focus on asset‐building. There could be different types of assets, and their selection and application for disaster risk management is necessarily a contextual exercise. The mix of asset‐building strategies could vary from one community to another, depending upon households’ asset profile. The paper addresses the dynamics of assets‐risk interaction, thus focusing on the role of assets in risk management.
International perspectives on gender and disaster: differences and possibilities
Authors: Enarson Elaine , Meyreles Lourdes
Published: June 2007

This article provides an introduction and assessment of the English and Spanish literatures on gender relations in disaster contexts. We analyze regional patterns of differences and similarities in women’s disaster experiences and the differing research questions raised by these patterns in the scholarly and practice‐based literature. The analysis supports the claim that how gender is theorized makes a difference in public policy and practical approaches to disaster risk management. We propose new directions in the field of disaster social science and contribute a current bibliography in the emerging gender and disaster field.
Perceptions of risk for volcanic hazards in Italy: a research note
Authors: Davis Matthew S. , Tullio Ricci Dott.
Published: June 2007

While a considerable body of work concerning citizens’ perceptions of risk for volcanic hazards has been done in the United States and New Zealand, no comparable study has focused on residents near Italy’s two major volcanoes: Vesuvio and Etna. This survey study, involving 174 participants, focused on various measures of risk perception, feelings of personal vulnerability to the volcanic threat, and confidence in government officials’ preparedness for potential eruptions. Although it was expected that due to a recent eruption of Etna, residents there would have higher levels of perceived risk than those at Vesuvio, findings mostly demonstrated the reverse. Additionally, residents living in the highest risk areas at Vesuvio demonstrated low levels of awareness concerning evacuation plans and low levels of confidence in the success of such plans.
Family relations in changing times: a longitudinal study of five cohorts of women
Authors: Putney Norella M. , Bengtson Vern L.
Published: June 2007

A major aim of contemporary research on multigenerational families is to investigate changes in intergenerational dynamics within the context of changing historical times. We highlight ways in which recent historical trends such as population aging, changing patterns of family formation and dissolution, changing life cycle boundaries and women’s increased laborforce participation have altered family structures, functions, and role expectations, especially those of women. Illustrating the usefulness of the life course perspective in family research, results from a longitudinal study of five cohorts of women are presented. Findings show that in midlife Baby Boom women are significantly more depressed and have lower self‐esteem than older cohorts of women, despite their earlier advantages. Work/family stress contributed to higher depression. Baby Boom women dissatisfied with their marriages were significantly more depressed in midlife than Silent Generation women, at comparable levels of dissatisfaction, suggesting the meaning of marriage may have shifted. Biographical and historical timing appeared to matter for the psychological functioning of Baby Boom women in midlife. Silent Generation women did not have to juggle work and family in the same way as Baby Boom women. Having started their child bearing at a later age, Baby Boomers were then confronted by a changing economy, the intensified demands of work and family and the growing contingency of marriage and employment.
The Bio‐Medical Model and Ageing: Towards an Anti‐Reductionist Model?
Authors: Powell Jason L. , Owen Tim
Published: June 2007

Anti‐reductionist social theory is a relatively ‘new’ but methodically eclectic body of theory which analyses the complexity of the tripartite theory, policy and practice. The work of Roger Sibeon (1996, 1999 and 2004) has contributed to a sensitising frame work in regard to a sociology of knowledge: generating epistemic narratives for theoretical construction and re‐construction, contrasting to a substantive sociology for knowledge based upon methodological generalisations for empirical or practical use: although the of/for distinction is not inflexible as there are circumstances when they form a process of what Powell and Longino (2001) call ‘articulation’: a united or connected analysis of/for theorising and practice.
Foreign Visitor, Exchange Student, or Family Member? A Study of Au Pair Policies in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia
Authors: Yodanis Carrie , Lauer Sean R.
Published: June 2007

Approaches to state provision of childcare have typically focused on the relative weight of state or market provision. In this article we follow a new institutional approach to the relationship between states and markets to examine the au pair industry, emphasising the role of states in the creation of markets for childcare. Research on the market provision of childcare has focused on the ambiguity in defining caring as work, which has led to the low value of care work. In this article we propose that those ambiguities also exist at the state level and impact the creation of the market for foreign childcare. Examining the development of au pair policies in the US, UK, and Australia, we find three strategies that involve defining au pairs not as employees, but rather as foreign visitors, exchange students, or family members. These strategies allow for by passing restrictions on immigration, increasing the supply of care providers, and circumventing compliance with labour regulations, thereby reducing the cost to families.
Surviving Post‐Socialism: Coping Practices in East‐Central Europe
Authors: Williams Colin C.
Published: June 2007

This article evaluates the coping practices adopted by households in East‐Central Europe following the collapse of the socialist bloc. Drawing upon the New Democracies Barometer (NDB) survey, it is here revealed that although a common assumption is that post‐socialist societies have under gone a transition to greater reliance on the market, an analysis of household coping practices provides little evidence that this is widely the case. Instead, households in most post‐socialist societies continue to rely heavily on a multiplicity of economic practices in order to secure their livelihoods with little, if any, shift over time towards the use of the formal economy in general and the market in particular. The outcome is a call for recognition and appreciation of the heterogeneous economic practices being used by households in East‐Central Europe and for greater consideration to be given to the contributions of the in formal sector in securing livelihoods.
An Initial Investigation of Employee Stress Related to Caring for Elderly and Dependent Relatives at Home
Authors: Gillen Mark C. , Chung Ed
Published: June 2007

It is recognised that a sustainable competitive advantage is a necessary condition for a firm to survive and prosper. Specifically, companies need to embark on real, substantive business initiatives that will accrue to the company an asymmetrical, firm‐specific resource that will not be perfectly imitable by competitors, to borrow from Barney’s (1986) parlance. Barney’s notion of imperfect imitability is see as crucial in ascertaining the long run efficacy of any potential source of competitive advantage. A sustainable competitive advantage is one which is of value, is rare, has few if any substitutes, and in particular is not easily copied (Barney, 1986). The acquisition of such a sustainable competitive advantage is seen as the whole point of planning and executive business level strategies.
Language, truth and meaning: A defence of modernism
Authors: McLachlan Hugh V.
Published: June 2007

Relativism, at least in some of its forms, is antithetical to sociology as traditionally practiced and conceived. (See, for instance, Benton and Crabb, 2001, pp.50‐74 and 93‐1006; Collins 1996a; Mann, 1998; Murphy, 1997; and Taylor‐Gooby, 1994). Hence, sociologists should consider abandoning traditional sociology or rejecting relativism. An example of the sort of relativism I have in mind is the philosophical theory that the truth and falsity of propositions is relative to the social context of their promulgation. Such epistemological relativism is expressed by Newton‐Smith when he says: “The central relativist idea is that what is true for one tribe, social group or age might not be true for an other tribe, social group or age” (Newton‐Smith, 1982, p.107).
Introduction: key issues and directions for the sociology of development
Authors: Young Gay
Published: June 2007

The analysis in this special issue on the sociology of development continues the ongoing process of problematizing the development enterprise. While the notion of modernization seems out of fashion, and few scholars would juxtapose the so‐called “progress and superiority” of modernization with the supposed “stagnation and inferiority” of tradition, the concept of development retains considerable ideological content. Evaluating development theories solely in terms of their relevance for policy both privileges the dominant worldview of the development community and masks the ideological premises of that worldview. The conditions pitting the ideology of free‐markets against state‐led development no longer exist, to be sure. Instead, the intricate connections between the global war on terror and global economic restructuring now serve the hegemonic project of developmentalism – “making the world safe for markets”.
Tracing the roots/routes of World Bank power
Authors: Goldman Michael
Published: June 2007

Most of the literature on the World Bank struggles to understand precisely how effective are the Bank’s projects and policies, emphasizing at the same time as reaffirming certain universal parameters with which to measure the good and the bad. This article, by contrast, argues for a different way of seeing the World Bank, that is, for scholarship that interrogates the political rationalities which underlie these distinctions and categories and which make these parameters and measures viable, necessary, and enduring. Indeed, most writings – including the innumerable self‐evaluations carried out by the Bank – simultaneously note the enormity of the Bank’s past misdeeds as well as its unique position as the only global institution up to the monumental task of translating global truths into global plans of action. Because of its unique role as the global development expert, the Bank is always two steps ahead of the pack, always re‐assessing and re‐tooling for improvement in ways that most national and international institutions cannot. Who else can respond so quickly to catastrophes around the globe – appearing one month in Thailand, the next in Argentina, and, in a bomb’s flash, in Afghanistan and Iraq? In a world in which global crises routinely erupt and “require” global experts of development to resolve them, the Bank and its affiliates in the World Bank Group have no rivals. But, rather than ask why the Bank’s responses are ultimately insufficient or flawed, we must first ask how problems get defined in terms of global crises and their solutions in terms of global development institutions in the first place? How did these ideas and institutions become so influential? What power dynamics do they embody?
Paradigm weak and strong – Volume 1
Authors: Sun Li‐teh
Published: June 2007

Man has been seeking an ideal existence for a very long time. In this existence, justice, love, and peace are no longer words, but actual experiences. How ever, with the American preemptive invasion and occupation of Afghanistan and Iraq and the subsequent prisoner abuse, such an existence seems to be farther and farther away from reality. The purpose of this work is to stop this dangerous trend by promoting justice, love, and peace through a change of the paradigm that is inconsistent with justice, love, and peace. The strong paradigm that created the strong nation like the U.S. and the strong man like George W. Bush have been the culprit, rather than the contributor, of the above three universal ideals. Thus, rather than justice, love, and peace, the strong paradigm resulted in in justice, hatred, and violence. In order to remove these three and related evils, what the world needs in the beginning of the third millenium is the weak paradigm. Through the acceptance of the latter paradigm, the golden mean or middle paradigm can be formulated, which is a synergy of the weak and the strong paradigm. In order to understand properly the meaning of these paradigms, however, some digression appears necessary.
‘Modernist’ Sociology in a ‘Postmodern’ World?
Authors: Shipman Jessica , Powell Jason L.
Published: June 2007

This article looks at the problems Sociology has in theorising modern discourses in the light of the rise and consolidation of Postmodernism. The paper begins with an historical sketch of the emergence of Enlightenment and how its values helped to engender intellectual curiosity amongst the precursors of modernist sociological theorising. Indeed, the paper analyses how Sociology faces up to enlightenment thought and legacy via a critical analysis of the modern‐postmodern debate: its historiography, pathologies, and futurology. At the same time, there has been a huge escalation of neo‐Nietzschean theorists under the label of ‘postmodernist’ who have castigated the enlightenment to the dustbin of the history of ideas, that its metanarratives of ‘progress’ and ‘freedom’ have failed and that western rationality is exhausted (Lyotard, 1984). Subsequently, the paper assesses to what extent the values of the ‘project of modernity’ have to be abandoned, and whether, in turn, sociology can offer the epistemic stretching of postmodern narratives.
Tackling technology’s image problem among young girls
Authors: Lee Lisa
Published: June 2007

It has been noted for some time now that the field of technology as an area of work, has been, and continues to be gender imbalanced and gender stratified This persistent trend has led to a growing body of theorisation and to the (re‐) evaluations of the inter relationship between gender and technology. It is beyond the scope of this article to review the rich theoretical work on gender and technol ogy, and instead the “essentialist” and “constructivist” approaches are briefly discussed here, since they offer a useful frame work within which to look at the case study policy of this article. This policy, as will be shown in the following sections, adopts an “essentialist” stance by seeing women’s under‐representation as resulting from gendered technologies and the obduracy of masculine values associated with technology, and by focusing on girls’ interests as distinct from those of boys. It adopts at the same time a “constructivist” approach through the strategy’s ability to reshape technology through girls’/women’s wider appropriation and use of technology, whereby technology is seen as socially constructed . Before exploring this dualism in more detail, it is helpful to develop a little the theoretical foundations of essentialism and constructivism.
Cultures of consumption of caraficionados
Authors: Hewer Paul , Brownlie Douglas
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the virtual consumption communities which cohere around the object of the car. Focusing upon the cultural practice of debadging, the paper intends to reveal forms of connectivity and resistance within communities of car customization.

Design/methodology/approach

A netnography in the form of non‐participant observation is used to explore the talk of caraficionadosaround issues of customization and affiliation.

Findings

The paper discusses the importance of internet discussion boards as forums for the exchange of information and advice, but also as a site to express their passion for cars and their affiliation with like‐minded others. The research reveals that the question of aesthetics is a significant one for caraficionados. This enables us to theorize such consumers as akin to designers for whom the discussion boards exist as key reference points.

Research limitations/implications

This is an exploratory study and its primary limitation is one of scope and method. Netnography provides access to web‐based communication. In this sense, a novel channel of access to new forms of expression and ways of doing social relations is employed. Clearly, the insights generated from this study are mediated by the character of the empirical site and the limits of non‐participatory netnography.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper resides in its attempt to theorize the significance of the cultural practice of debadging as a key constituent in community‐formation.
Cool Cymru, rugby union and an imagined community
Authors: Harris John
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically reflect upon the place of rugby union in contemporary Wales where the game is used as an important tool to promote images of the nation. Using Benedict Anderson's conceptualisation of the nation as an “imagined community” the paper aims to locate and analyse the game within and around discourses of Cool Cymru, a term coined in the late twentieth century to promote images of a new vibrant Wales as popularised through its leading music bands.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical sociological approach analyses and problematises notions of Welshness as it relates to the national sport of rugby.

Findings

The nation is often (re)presented and conceptualised as a monolithic whole where rugby's assumed centrality is rarely questioned. This essay focuses upon the areas of language, geography and gender to demonstrate the situated limits of these (re)presentations. Rugby union and Cool Cymru are also located alongside devolution and are examined further with specific reference to the postmodern sporting celebrity.

Originality/value

This work highlights an increasing primacy afforded to the capital city of Cardiff within a re‐imagining of the nation and the national game.
Mainstreet USA revisited
Authors: Penaloza Lisa
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the nature of market politics in a Latino/a community in Southern California, USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Research methods combine orignial ethnographic and historical work with secondary sources on marketing and political activities in their relation to consumption.

Findings

Findings highlight conflicts brought about by the burgeoning development of the consumer market for Mexican immigrants in the area, as proponents of conventional industrial and residential development projects clash with Latino/a consumers, Latino/a and Asian buisnessmen and women, and community activists.

Research limitations/implications

A partial view of Latino community is provided that stems from the treatment of consumer culture as fragmented, contradictory, and increasingly mediated by marketing activity and social relations.

Practical implications

Implications strive to re‐imagine Latino/a community and develop policy directives by considering the place of consumption, labor, and capital, and by taking into account the fluid nature of identity, the porous and dynamic bounds of community, and in/formal structures of political power.

Originality/value

This research contributes to our understanding of social relations between mainstream and minority groups as played out in marketing activity and consumer culture. It should prove valuable to academics, policy analysts, and community activists.
International adoption: a sociological account of the US experience
Authors: Engel Madeline , Phillips Norma K. , Dellacava Frances A.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This article aims to focus on social structures and national and international factors as they influence international adoption. Special attention is paid to the impact of media, social welfare policies, legislation, and international monitoring groups on international adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

The article reviews relevant literature in sociology, social work, and the media. Much of the focus is on adoption in the USA since it has the largest number of internationally adopted children.

Findings

International adoption is becoming more common and is likely to continue to do so despite the concerns of some countries, some minority groups, and international monitoring agencies regarding trafficking in children, cultural genocide, and social justice issues related to transracial/intercultural adoption.

Originality/value

Adoption has generally been studied by social workers, psychologists and others concerned with its impact on the individual adoptee, birth mother and adoptive family. This article presents a sociological perspective of international adoption and considers its implications for families. The article is useful for policy makers, practitioners and others concerned with the occurrence of international adoption and its potential consequences.
Sociological practice: its meaning and value
Authors: Kirshak Ray
Published: June 2007

Introduces a special issue of the journal, focusing on sociological practice and its relevance to the modern world. Investigates the meaning of sociological practice, making a distinction between applied sociology and clinical sociology. Cites seven principles of US sociological practice, linking them to the articles included in this journal. Concludes by saying that sociology should be designed so that it is accessible and useful to everyone, helping people to improve their lives.
Critical theory, hermeneutics, and addiction recovery
Authors: Kerns‐Zucco Raymond
Published: June 2007

Investigates recovery from drug addiction in the USA as an interactive social process. Describes what the author terms “the hermeneutic process” – a verbal interchange between two addicts, making the addiction “real” and, therefore, the addicts become aware of the addiction, creating a personal biographical text which translates, in a group setting, into a text of social history, with which other group members can identify. Indicates then that addicts should interact with other addicts and recovering addicts, so stimulating dialogue and reflection. Observes that recovering alcoholics suggest that alcoholism is a “thinking problem” rather than a “drinking problem” and that it is necessary to realize the truth of past experiences and overcome any denial. Talks about distorted interpretations on an individual and social level, providing some illustrative examples. Discusses the task of the clinical sociologist in aiding addiction recovery.
Globalization and the welfare state
Authors: Stryker Robin
Published: June 2007

Introduces a special issue on globalization and the welfare state. Asserts that economic globalization constrains national economic and social policy far more now than ever before, although the level of international trade has not increased that much compared to levels at the beginning of this century. Talks about the political consequences of economic globalization, particularly welfare state retrenchment in the advanced capitalist world. Outlines the papers included in this issue – comparing welfare system changes in Sweden, the UK and the USA; urban bias in state policy‐making in Mexico; and the developing of the Israeli welfare state. Concludes that economic globalization has a limited effect in shaping social welfare policy in advanced capitalist countries; nevertheless, recommends further research into which aspects of economic globalization shape social welfare policy.
Bringing the international economy back in: welfare system change in Sweden, Britain and the US, 1975‐85
Authors: O’Connor John
Published: June 2007

Evaluates changes in the welfare system in Sweden, the UK and the USA over a decade, basing arguments on the divergence of economic globalization and domestic forces. Presents brief economic snapshots of each country, stating quite categorically that the welfare state is an impediment to capitalist profit‐making, hence all three nations have retrenched welfare systems in the hope of remaining globally economically competitive. Lays the responsibility for retrenchment firmly at the door of conservative political parties. Takes into account public opinion, national institutional structures, multiculturalism and class issues. Explores domestic structures of accumulation (DSA) and refers to changes in the international economy, particularly the Bretton Woods system (Pax Americana), and notes how the economic health of nations mirrors that of the US. Investigates the roles of multinationals and direct foreign investment in the global economy, returning to how economic policy affects the welfare state. Points out the changes made to the welfare state through privatization, decentralization and modification of public sector financing. Concludes that the main result has been an increase in earnings inequality and poverty.
Positional power, party politics and social security in Mexico: is urban bias politically negotiable?
Authors: Wahl Ana‐Maria
Published: June 2007

Investigates urban bias in state policy making in Mexico. Refers to literature claiming that rural poverty in developing nations is a major problem because capitalism reflects an urban bias. Examines social security coverage for the rural poor in Mexico and notes that there are great variations depending on area, suggesting that social security coverage is politically negotiable. Outlines briefly the historical development of Mexico’s welfare state and uses a power resource model to demonstrate how groups with competing interests go about securing benefits from the state. Cites literature on dependency theory, indicating that rural groups have failed to mobilize politically and have therefore not secured the same state resources (such as social security benefits and housing) as urban groups, yet argues that this does not always apply in Mexico, partially due to party politics and bureaucratic paternalism. Explains how data was collected to examine regional variations in social security coverage among the rural poor and how the data was analysed. Reveal that workers in important international export markets (such as cotton and sugar) have greater political leverage in obtaining better social security benefits. Notes also that areas supporting the political party in power obtain better benefits. Concludes, therefore, that rural workers are not powerless in the face of urban capitalism and that urban bias and dependency theories do not reflect the situation in Mexico – rather social security benefits are politically negotiable.
Ethnicity, HIV/AIDS prevention and public health education
Authors: Quah Stella R.
Published: June 2007

Assesses the health belief model and its application to the perception of HIV/AIDS prevention through public health education. Investigates the concepts of stigma and blame among the Chinese, Malay and Indian Singaporeans. Describes the methodology and data analysis used. Analyses the findings – that the significant majority believe HIV/AIDS sufferers to be risk‐takers (rather than deviants) and that the most effective preventive measure against AIDS is to change sexual behaviour. Compares findings across the three ethnic groups – Malays believe that the individual is personally responsible for contracting HIV/AIDS, they also recognize the seriousness of the disease; the Indians had a sense of concerned responsibility, partially as a result of public health campaigns; the Chinese also had a sense of concerned responsibility, but not gleaned so much from health campaigns. Reports that, across the communities, younger people attribute HIV/AIDS to deviant sexual behaviour, while older people think of HIV/AIDS sufferers as victims of accidental infection and are therefore more sympathetic. Attributes ethnic differences to two facts: the first is that, in Singapore, people regard dual identify as important – on the one hand helping to shape Singapore’s national identity and, on the other hand, retaining strong values of ethnicity; the second fact is religion, particularly the way Malay Muslims attribute HIV/AIDS to personal responsibility.
Decision making, use of contraception and fertility in Bangladesh: a path analysis
Authors: Zakia Hossain Syeda
Published: June 2007

Draws on data from the 1989 Bangladesh Fertility Survey to explore whether or not socio‐demographic factors such as woman’s age, education, occupation, income and residence affect fertility because of different attitudes towards decision making and the use of contraception. Describes the methodology used and forms of data analysis – path modelling via LISREL. Analyses the findings – that as the woman’s age increases so does the number of children ever born, women who have not completed primary education have more children than women who have completed secondary or higher education, urban women have fewer children than rural women, and women with more education and a higher income have more autonomy in decision making, consequently are more likely to use contraception and have fewer children. Reports that when men make the decisions, families are larger and infers that there are policy implications in that finding. Concludes that the determining factors affecting fertility and use of contraception in Bangladesh are the woman’s level of education, residence in urban or rural areas, and the extent of inter‐spouse communication.
Public health equity goals: households and food production in nutrition research
Authors: Duff John
Published: June 2007

Explains that current public health policy puts so much emphasis on food and nutrition because the single largest cause of death is nutrition‐related, and also because it is easier for a government to promote public health through nutrition than to address ailing health infrastructures or get to grips with adult literacy. Reports, however, the gaps in health equality between different socio‐economic and ethnic groups, and across gender and age. Discusses cultural expectations of a meal and the ideal body. Infers that the higher educational level a person has, the more likely they are to be thin and to occupy a higher place in a hierarchical social structure. Suggests that more food is consumed as snacks – a triumph for mass production, marketing and advertising. Defines what is meant and understood by diet, and evaluates good and bad food. Focuses briefly on traditional food exchanges in Western Samoa and on the use of olive oil in the traditional Mediterranean diet. Indicates that choice of food may be a result of production processes rather than consumer pressure. Explores also the social and cultural interactions of meal times and the role women’s emancipation has played in changing household food and meals. Points out that the lowest socioeconomic groups favour informal takeaways, while the highest socioeconomic groups prefer formal meals out, and, therefore, that the distribution of health and illness is shaped by cultural, social, economic and political forces.
Making childcare work
Authors: Scott Gill
Published: June 2007

Examines the Out of School childcare initiative in Scotland (in 1996) by gathering data from the 1991 census and carrying out questionnaire surveys and interviews with both workers, responsible for developing Out of School care, and parents. Compares the findings with earlier research carried out in 1995. Assesses the impact the initiative has had on creating new jobs, improving access to employment for parents using the service, and how well the scheme answers the needs of women workers. Indicates from results obtained that parents had experienced a change in economic activity – increasing hours worked or starting a new job – and/or increased training take‐up. Records also that efficiency and enjoyment of work increased as gender inequalities began to be tackled. Notes that Out of School care schemes were more likely to occur in areas of higher socio‐economic composition, yet Out of School childcare could be part of an anti‐poverty strategy, encouraging women from deprived areas to enter the labour market. Claims that the scheme has had contradictory impacts but that it is hampered by lack of adequate and long‐term funding.
Organisational dilemmas in community neighbourhood organisation: the Jerusalem experience
Authors: Schmid Hillel
Published: June 2007

Recounts the merger of Jerusalem’s Neighbourhood Self Management Organizations (NSMOs) and Community Service Organizations (CSOs) into the Joint Community Neighbourhood Management Organization (JCNM). Refers to literature on institutional theory and the process of decentralization. Focuses then on the NSMOs and CSOs, providing some background information on how and why they were originally set up and what their goals were. Compares the differences between the organizations, as well as the basic principles they have in common – hence the merge into one organization. Discusses the problems the JCNM has faced over the years, including issues such as identify, legitimacy, composition of board of directors, professional or political values, and restructuring the organization. Draws a quadrant model of patronage and centralization, suggesting that the NCNM aims to occupy a particular quadrant but is being hampered in doing so because policy makers prefer to keep things the way they are.
Behavioural acculturation and demographic characteristics of Asian‐Indian immigrants in the United States of America
Authors: Khairullah Durriya Z. , Khairullah Zahid Y.
Published: June 2007

Tests the reliability of an empirical model designed by Szapocznik et al to measure acculturation levels of first‐generation immigrants. Applies model to a demographically diverse sample group of first‐generation Asian‐Indian immigrants in three cities near New York (USA) to establish levels of cultural and behavioural acculturation, and the relevance of demographic variables, such as gender, marital status, religion and occupation. Establishes a series of statistically significant correlations between the variables examined; compares these results with findings of other studies involving different immigrant groups. Asserts that the model provides a reliable basis for assessing acculturation characteristics of immigrants; concludes that the findings of this study provide an objective basis for the development of social and public policy aimed at accommodating acculturation needs of this particular immigrant group.
The bane and benefits of computers in Australia’s Department of Social Security
Authors: Henman Paul
Published: June 2007

Attempts to establish the extent to which the use of computers in Australia’s Department of Social Security (DSS) has facilitated changes in social security policy and its administration. Bases findings on case studies relating to two new DSS policies, supplemented with documentary evidence. Identifies that computers are used in the DSS for six main purposes ‐ administering, automating, protecting, monitoring and evaluating policy, as well as for modelling future policy options. Identifies that, instead of increasing efficiency in administration, computers have simply increased productivity by enabling administrative practices to be extended into new areas; observes an emerging computer‐dependent culture dominated by quantitative (rather than qualitative) practices. Establishes that the flexibility offered by computer technology has also contributed to the introduction of more complex social security policies. Concludes that computer technology has contributed to the formulation and administration of social security policies.
Libertarianism is pro‐life: an introduction
Authors: Earnheart Bruce
Published: June 2007

Introduces libertarianism as a political philosophy, outlining a few implications stating that freedom brings responsibilities. Argues that abortion is the ultimate aggression as it is homicide.
How I became pro‐life: remarks on abortion, parental obligations and the draft
Authors: Gordon Doris
Published: June 2007

Outlines the authors’ influences whilst forming a pro‐life view. States that the parent’s duty to care for their child begins at conception and is a form of involuntary servitude. Compares this with the military draft and argues that more emphasis should be placed on parental obligations.
When do human beings begin? scientific myths and scientific facts
Authors: Irving Dianne N.
Published: June 2007

Outlines some basic human embryological facts and considers several myths such as “the immediate product of fertilization is just a potential human being”. Gives medical facts to clarify these issues and concludes that these have far reaching implications for many areas of research. Argues that these decisions, at present, are based more on myth than science.
Abortion and the question of the person
Authors: Walker John
Published: June 2007

Argues that the basic case for abortion is based upon the assumption that the foetus is not a person. Discusses the concept of a person and the potential for and actualization of this status. Concludes that the child is born with value and therefore possesses inalienable rights.
Abortion in the case of pregnancy due to rape
Authors: Walker John
Published: June 2007

Outlines the situation of rape and considers the further violation of liberty against the woman, but argues that the obligation to the child still exists whilst within her body. Covers adoption and looks at the child as a social victim as well as the mother.
Abortion and Thompson’s violinist: unplugging a bad analogy
Authors: Gordon Doris
Published: June 2007

Refutes the suggestion that the mother has the right to remove herself as the life support system from an unborn child. Cites responsibilities in creating the child and argues the child is then seen as a trespasser and is punished by capital punishment.
Abortion and rights: applying the Libertarian principles correctly
Authors: Gordon Doris
Published: June 2007

Outlines the Libertarian framework of rights and obligations in abortion. Argues that abortion is homicide based upon the scientific and philosophic evidence available and disputes further points believed by abortion proponents.
From “Ancient Regime” to “New Regime”: The case of the Czarist and Bolshevik repressive machinery
Authors: Shlapentokh Dmitry
Published: June 2007

Looks at the reasons for the collapse of both regimes and considers the importance of repression with these developments. Contrasts the methods of Imperial Russia with the Bolsheviks looking at Court proceedings, prison conditions, education and propaganda in prison, exile and the secret police. Concludes that whilst social support is usually seen as essential for survival of a system, repression is not regarded as a positive element but can become the method for a system’s survival and stability.
Is housework unpaid work?
Authors: Blackburn Robert M.
Published: June 2007

Looks at the historical positioning of housework as unpaid and questions the correctness of this idea. States that there is a fundamental theoretical error in defining housework as unpaid as market concepts are being applied to non‐market work. Continues to distinguish between the two markets considering the features of both, outlining the gender differences and the recent changes in the twentieth century.
Ecology and class: the Green Syndicalism of IWW/Earth First local 1
Authors: Shantz Jeffrey A. , Adam Barry D.
Published: June 2007

Profiles the development of the project IWW/Earth First Local 1, a group which brought loggers and environmentalists together in an attempt to combine labour and ecology issues. Describes anarchosyndicalist ideas that formed the basis of this alliance, suggesting that these have some merit for present day ecologists. Considers the common ground shared by labour and ecology movements and presents some learnings from the project for future mainstream environmental policies.
Urban ecology underdevelopment and public health – a study of Aligarh City in India
Authors: Islam Laskar Baharul
Published: June 2007

Reports the results of a study into the urban health issues of Muslim minorities, in the city of Aligarh, India, in 1991‐1993. Outlines the conceptual framework and presents the methodology before providing a brief portrait of the Muslim minority status and urbanization. Concludes that basic health information is still lacking. Comments that infectious diseases, malnutrition and occupational diseases are the most common, with women, children and elderly being the most vulnerable.
How redundancies worsen social inequality
Authors: Jones Bryn , Nisbet Peter
Published: June 2007

Attempts to show the wider social impact of collective redundancy creating recruits for the “flexible” sector of the labour force, those on temporary contracts, part time and self employed. Considers the way collective redundancy has changed the demographic structure of the UK labour force including a sizeable number of older unemployed individuals and many female part time workers. Argues that this could be seen as limited empowerment, labour market enfranchisement for women or marginalization of the traditional older male worker.