Journal of Education and Human Development

Neoliberalism and Equity: Chilean Society Analyzed from the Student´s Perspective
Oswaldo Méndez-Ramírez

Abstract
The present qualitative study explores how students from the University of Chile define the concepts of “neoliberalism” and “equity” and discusses the effects of neoliberalism on the higher education offer. The sample includes 70 students and a natural semantic networks technique was used to access the individual’s conceptual constructions and process definition. In conclusion, the students consider neoliberalism as an economic system based on capitalism and characterized by inequality, competition, injustice and individualism, whose effects manifest with poverty. Whereas, they define equity as a right based on distribution, focused on society and characterized by equality, opportunities and justice, and becomes evident with social development.

Full Text: PDF     DOI: 10.15640/jehd.v4n2_1a17