A Problem Shared? The Role of the Public in the Legitimation of Policy: A Case Study of Gendered Welfare Change in the United Kingdom

Abstract This article argues that shared problematizations—shared political and public ways of thinking—legitimize policies their outcomes. To support this argument, it examines the legitimation gendered welfare reform in recent U.K. context. Drawing on focus groups with public, provides evidence public’s problematization welfare, specifically was necessary to “make work pay” “restore fairness”, aligned politicians. It assumptions silences underpinning problematization, especially relating value necessity care, have allowed for disadvantaged women.