An Adornian ideology critique of neo-liberal reforms to the English NHS

Abstract

ABSTRACT In this article, I undertake an ideology critique of reforms to the English NHS within the neo-liberal era. The critique draws primarily on the writings of the Frankfurt School philosopher Theodor Adorno. I use the method of ideology critique to explain the influences on and reasons for the reforms, the contradictions in government discourse and policy and the potential reifying effects of the reforms. I also use the method as a basis for conceiving alternatives. Adorno thought that ideology was becoming more positivistic, thereby rendering critique more difficult. I identify both liberal and positivistic elements within the discourse of successive governments pertaining to healthcare. Liberal norms (such as freedom and equality) within government discourse, and the law, concerning healthcare, continue to enable the critique of ideology and are a basis for conceiving alternatives to current neo-liberal policies, which have the potential to reify healthcare and undermine the solidarity underpinning the NHS.