
Contents
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Introduction Introduction
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Changing views of economics Changing views of economics
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Working mothers and the expansion of childcare Working mothers and the expansion of childcare
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Making a profit Making a profit
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Labour costs Labour costs
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Property costs Property costs
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Technology Technology
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Competitive edge Competitive edge
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Fee income Fee income
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Market volatility Market volatility
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Regulation Regulation
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Financial interventions Financial interventions
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Quality interventions Quality interventions
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Data collection Data collection
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Summary Summary
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References References
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Cite
Abstract
This chapter considers the limitations of using the market as a workable model for the organisation and delivery of childcare. It presents a brief overview of the reach of economics as a basis for making decisions about childcare, and describes changes in ideas about the application of market principles to traditional welfare contexts. It describes the neoliberal view of the market, in which the role of the state is regarded as minimal, and taxation and regulation are viewed as mainly controversial impositions on business. The chapter interrogates dominant market theories and their applicability to childcare markets. It explores the workability of the childcare market model from the perspective of providers seeking to make a profit out of childcare provision and contrasts the competing demands of profitability with those of equitable access, quality and sustainability of provision. Drawing on Harvey's (2010) notions of the geography of capitalism, the supposed superiority of markets is questioned, as compared to alternative approaches. The chapter concludes that the market model poses serious risks to equity.
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