Agency, actors and change in a child-focused future: ‘Path dependency’ problematised

Abstract

This article calls into question the assumptions of leading welfare state theorists who rely on path dependency approaches and ‘permanent austerity’ theses to inform their analyses. In contrast, drawing on public policy approaches that acknowledge paradigm shifts, and feminist state and social movement theorisation, we examine the state/civil society interrelations that have helped to bring about changes in state forms in Canada and Britain. We argue that state/civil society interaction explains the novel patterns that are taking shape in Canada and Britain with the materialisation of a ‘social investment perspective’ and child welfare reform strategy. We examine not only new institutions and new policies, but also new meanings and new roles for different groups.