Question 1: Define the term 'welfare state' and explain its primary purpose within UK society.

Answer: A welfare state is a system in which the government provides social services and financial support to ensure the well-being of its citizens. Its primary purpose is to reduce poverty and promote social equality.

Question 2: Describe two ways in which the welfare state can reduce social inequality in the UK.

Answer: First, by providing free or subsidized healthcare through the National Health Service (NHS), it ensures everyone has access regardless of income. Second, by offering welfare benefits like unemployment and child support, it supports those in financial need.

Question 3: Explain how the welfare state might contribute to social stratification.

Answer: The welfare state can contribute to social stratification by creating a division between those who receive support and those who do not. It may also reinforce class divisions if benefits are more accessible to certain social groups, potentially perpetuating inequality.

Question 4: Identify and explain two criticisms of the welfare state in relation to social inequality.

Answer: One criticism is that it can create dependency among recipients, discouraging self-reliance. Another is that welfare benefits may be targeted or distributed unevenly, benefiting some groups more than others and thus maintaining or widening social inequalities.

Question 5: Discuss how the concept of social mobility relates to the role of the welfare state.

Answer: Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals to move between social classes. The welfare state can promote social mobility by providing education, healthcare, and support that enable individuals from lower classes to improve their social position.

Question 6: Describe a scenario where the welfare state could unintentionally reinforce social stratification.

Answer: If welfare benefits are only accessible to certain groups due to complex eligibility criteria, it may entrench existing class divisions. For example, if only those with certain paperwork or knowledge can access support, it could limit upward mobility for disadvantaged groups.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating how the welfare state impacts social classes in the UK. Label the different classes and indicate the influence of welfare policies.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a vertical stratification with social classes (e.g., upper, middle, working, and lower classes). Arrows or annotations would indicate how welfare policies (like healthcare, benefits) aim to support lower classes and possibly narrow the gap between classes.

Question 8: In your opinion, what is one way the government could improve the welfare state to better reduce social inequality? Justify your answer.

Answer: One improvement could be increasing access to quality education for disadvantaged groups, which can provide better employment opportunities and reduce inequality. Justification: Education is a key factor in social mobility and long-term inequality reduction.

Question 9: Explain the term 'residual welfare system' and how it differs from a 'universal welfare system'.

Answer: 'Residual welfare system' refers to support provided only when individuals fall into severe need, often means-tested. 'Universal welfare system' offers benefits to all citizens regardless of income, aiming to reduce inequality and provide a safety net for everyone.