This chapter was very enlightening, in the fact, I was unaware of all the social movements throughout the history of the world. I believe some of the movements were defining and provided a good foundation for future societies. For instance, The Elizabethan Poor Laws of 1601 provided the foundation of our current social welfare system. I believe the three driving principles are extremely important to the success and functionality of the US Welfare System. The primary responsibility should lie within the family structure, relief should be handled, for the most part, at the local level and individuals should not be transient from community to community. The Reformed theology movement provided the understanding that hard work and strong morals help an individual become self-sufficient. The Settlement House movement helped provide a more compassionate approach and understanding of societal factors that contributed to poverty. The movement transformed how the poor were cared for and perceived. FDR and his New Deal, promoted the idea that a minimum standard of living was a right and not a privilege. …show more content…
We must keep in mind; however, that with growth come growing pains. And, the laws and policies of the past must be reviewed and reformed to make them current for today’s societies. Before 1996, welfare assistance was considered open-ended. The states were given “limitless” money, which created no incentive to encourage individuals to get off welfare. How did this create self-sufficiency? It did not and that is what caused many citizens to begin stereotyping the individuals on welfare as lazy and wanting handouts. That is why the Welfare Reform Act of 1996 was necessary and supported by most Americans. The program was created to provide short-term financial assistance and guide people into finding jobs and becoming