Anthony Giddens

• Human nature

  • individualistic and desire to make choices for themselves and live in a way that seems to bring them happiness
  • individuality is not disconnected from a sense of collectivity and a need to belong and feel a part of a group with shared goals
• Society

  • society is dynamic and interconnected
  • society involves a relationship between individual need for freedom
  • rooted in a strong need for cultural and community identity
• State

  • strong role for state in promoting welfare to work and addressing global challenges bu cooperating in a global community
  • competitive state
  • state provided opportunities through education and invests to promote community belonging
  • decision making is best devolved
• Economy

  • reformed capitalism that prioritises sustainability and social justice
  • market competition can be used to enhance public services and drive reforms
  • growth can be used to generate tax revenue to implement welfare reform, standards of education and community initiatives
  • capitalism should be open to all disadvantaged groups
• Revolution

  • importance of market reform and adaption in addressing contemporary issues
  • advocates for a democratic engagement as a means of achieving social change, democratic reform a constitutional change
• Class

  • class is no longer a determining factor
  • individuals see themselves as able to move up through classes
  • gender and ethnicity reflect the complexities of modern society
• Examples

  • Third Way: New Labour government- Blair adopted Gidden's Third Way
  • Sustainable Development policies: Climate Change Act 2008
  • Community Engagement Initiatives: programs encouraging civic participation