A Political Sociology of Education Policy

This book provides a new political sociology for critical education policy research, connecting political thinking from Arendt with sociological thinking from Bourdieu to produce innovative analysis for and about educational reform.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 13 January 2023
Publisher: Bristol University Press

Critical education policy research has a rich and longstanding tradition within political sociology. This book, supported by esteemed funders like the British Academy and the Economic and Social Research Council, presents a novel political sociology that serves as a framework for conducting, analyzing, and presenting critical education policy research. By integrating political thinking from Arendt with sociological insights from Bourdieu, this book offers groundbreaking analysis and insights into educational reform. It pioneers the interconnection of these two intellectual domains, resulting in innovative approaches to understanding and addressing educational challenges.

The book's central objective is to provide researchers and policymakers with a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of the complex dynamics and processes shaping education policy. It delves into the political, social, and economic factors that influence educational outcomes and explores the ways in which these factors interact and shape policy decisions. Through a rigorous analysis of data and evidence, the book offers valuable insights into the power dynamics, ideologies, and institutions that shape education policy and its implementation.

One of the key contributions of this book is its integration of political thinking from Arendt with sociological thinking from Bourdieu. Arendt, a renowned political philosopher, emphasized the importance of human agency, political participation, and the capacity for critical thinking in shaping society. On the other hand, Bourdieu, a sociologist, focused on the social structures, power relations, and cultural capital that shape individuals and organizations. By combining these two perspectives, the book provides a holistic understanding of the complex interplay between politics, society, and education policy.

The book's chapters are organized in a logical and accessible manner, making it easy for readers to navigate and gain a deep understanding of the topics covered. Each chapter begins with a brief introduction that sets the context for the subsequent discussion and highlights the key insights and arguments presented. The chapters are further enriched with case studies, examples, and empirical evidence that illustrate the practical applications of the theoretical frameworks discussed.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking contribution to the field of critical education policy research. By integrating political thinking from Arendt with sociological thinking from Bourdieu, it offers a novel framework for understanding and addressing educational challenges. It provides valuable insights into the power dynamics, ideologies, and institutions that shape education policy and its implementation. The book's rigorous analysis of data and evidence, coupled with its accessible and engaging writing style, makes it an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, and educators interested in shaping education policy for the better.

Weight: 466g
Dimension: 241 x 161 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781447363330