Spanish Social Services: Progress and Future Challenges
Theme 1: Status and Prospects for Social Services in Spain
1. Progress Since the SSSS (Social Services System)
1.1 Legal Framework
The legal framework governing this area has been established. The European Community (EC) opened a regulatory framework that was complemented with the statutes of autonomy, the law of bases of local government, and regional legislation on social services. The latter is designed to respond to the specific needs of each autonomous community in this matter. Second-generation
Read MoreIndustrialization, Class Struggle, and Technological Advance
The Spread of Industrialization
Industrialization in Europe
At the beginning of the 19th century, Great Britain was the only country in the world with significant industrial development, caused by the Industrial Revolution. In other parts of Europe, the survival of the Old Regime’s economic, political, and social institutions did not allow for the new technological and organizational advances to spread. Furthermore, British goods flooded the markets, and it was almost impossible for local producers
Read MorePractical Applications of Anthropology in Modern Society
The Practical Applications of Anthropology
Anthropology in Education
A persistent belief, found in both rural and urban settings, is that girls do not need to attend school. This contrasts with the view for boys, who are expected to bear the responsibility of providing financial resources to support their future households. This assumption has several implications:
- It presupposes that girls must get married, as it is assumed they cannot support themselves financially otherwise.
- This trend is particularly
From Taylorism to Toyotism: The Evolution of Industrial Production
The Second Industrial Revolution
In the early twentieth century, the Second Industrial Revolution was pioneered by countries like the USA and Germany. This era was characterized by increased mechanization, with machines becoming more effective. This led to mass production, and energy sources shifted from coal to oil and electricity. Industries multiplied and diversified with the invention of new tools, engines, machines, and materials. As factories grew larger and more complex, a need arose for a
Read MoreCore Concepts and Theories in Comparative Politics
Comparative Politics: Definition and Scope
Comparative Politics studies and compares domestic political systems across countries. It focuses on power, institutions, and decision-making within states.
The Comparative Method and Challenges
The comparative method identifies causes and effects through comparison and relies mainly on deductive reasoning. Key methodological challenges include:
- Endogeneity: Difficulty distinguishing cause from effect.
- Multicausality: When multiple variables explain one outcome.
Global Political Systems: Six Case Studies
British Political Traditions and Constitution
Introduction: Britain, officially known as the United Kingdom (UK), is a strong and historic union of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Its constitution is unwritten, based on traditions and historical documents, allowing it to be easily adapted over time. Having once ruled a vast empire—where it was famously said, “The sun never sets on it”—Britain still plays an influential role in global politics, trade, and diplomacy.
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