Reading list

To develop our framework for researching and challenging problematic aspects of social benefits systems, we sought to assemble a set of readings to provide greater context for understanding the history of surveillance and social benefits systems, the role social benefits systems play in increasing surveillance of particular communities, how to challenge problematic aspects of such systems, and how to conceive of affirmative solutions for what truly equitable and just social protection could look like. These readings reflect the intersectional, critical approach we believe is required to examine these issues, work with affected communities, and advocate for change.

These readings have helped us conceptualise how people in vulnerable situations, people belonging to non-dominant groups, women, minorities, people who are transgender or gender nonconforming, and people with disabilities are disproportionately impacted and policed by aspects of social benefits systems that are designed to surveil, control, and punish, and what we can do to challenge those particular aspects.

If you are interested in learning more about what research and writing informed our framework for researching and challenging problematic aspects of social benefits systems, you can learn more through this reading list. This body of scholarship helped us develop our thinking and framing of the ways in which social benefits system overscrutinise, stigmatise, and underprotect social benefits claimants and recipients.