NCJ Number
146743
Journal
Annals of the American Academy of Political and Social Science Volume: 501 Dated: (January 1989) Pages: 143-155
Date Published
1989
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This article asserts that the problem of severe poverty and its attendant behaviors and emotions will be solved only when Americans choose to open the opportunity structure to all people regardless of race, class, or gender.
Abstract
American policy makers have chosen, with the acquiescence of most citizens, paths which have created or increased estrangement among a minority of poor people. These choices are explained here as a gap between the rhetoric and reality of opportunity for all, and have included slavery, a preference for unemployment over inflation, and the promotion of policies that have left a group of people with no resources, skills, or faith in themselves. Two strategies that can assist the estranged poor include addressing particular individuals and families as they are now and preventing the reproduction of a similar group of people in the future. Successful efforts will cost a lot in terms of both financial and human resources, and must involve a wide array of activities aimed at changing life skills, views, and circumstances. However, they are necessary to make the rhetoric of equal opportunity a reality of all Americans. 30 notes