The social evils debate
The Joseph Rowntree Foundation has started a UK-wide debate to find out what are the social evils of the 21st century.
In a public consultation in 2007, thousands of people told us what they thought these were. Themes included drugs and alcohol, crime and violence, and decline of the family. Underlying these, some other themes emerged – including a perception of a decline in values, fear of others, inequality and a lack of community – which we have asked key commentators to examine.
These issues were explored further by key social commentators in a series of debates in 2008, recordings of which are available to download. Their views have also been published in a series of Viewpoints, which are available to download for free.
A book (Contemporary Social Evils) has been published, summarising the findings so far, including new research with disadvantaged groups, and looking forward. For more information click here.
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