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Reforming Care

Author

Listed:
  • Nancy Folbre

    (University of Massachusetts Amherst, folbre@econs.umass.edu)

Abstract

This essay argues that concerns regarding the impact of work/family balance on gender inequality should be extended to broader analysis of all care work. Paid or unpaid care devoted to all dependents (including the sick and elderly as well as children) has distinctive characteristics that contribute to disempowerment and underpayment. Expenditures of money as well as time increase economic vulnerability. Public policies should provide greater support for caregiving outside the market, improve the supply and quality of purchased care services, and challenge conventional accounting systems that mismeasure economic welfare.

Suggested Citation

  • Nancy Folbre, 2008. "Reforming Care," Politics & Society, , vol. 36(3), pages 373-387, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:polsoc:v:36:y:2008:i:3:p:373-387
    DOI: 10.1177/0032329208320567
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    References listed on IDEAS

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