Homework Clinic

Social Science Clinic => Sociology => Topic started by: littleanan on Aug 17, 2019

Title: The emergence of the American belief that anyone can be successful if they work hard enough ...
Post by: littleanan on Aug 17, 2019

Question 1

The Charity Organization Movement accepted "Social Darwinism" as its theoretical perspective for helping or not helping the poor. What was considered morally correct in attitudes towards the poor and society in general? As a result of this perspective, what types of social welfare programs were developed in the late 1800s and how did their effectiveness relate to this perspective?

Question 2

The emergence of the American belief that anyone can be successful if they work hard enough developed during this time period. How did this thinking justify the development of a leisure class? In what ways was the perspective of this time period ignoring of reality? In what ways does this belief still prevail today and how does it guide modern policy and political thinking?
Title: The emergence of the American belief that anyone can be successful if they work hard enough ...
Post by: ynlevi on Aug 17, 2019

Answer 1

This question should explain what social Darwinism meant, how it influenced attitudes towards the poor and how it justified the elite becoming more elite. The student should then discuss some programs that were developed and what impact this perspective had on the types or programs and their effectiveness.

Answer 2

The perspective of everyone can be successful if they work hard enough was used as a justification for the emergence of a leisure class since if you were successful, which is morally correct, you deserve the freedom and privileges it allows you. This concept can be elaborated on significantly. This perspective still prevails today in modern times. It influences policy and politics. Disgruntled workers vote for who they believe will make success easier and are enamored with the rich and powerful. Policies often want to punish the poor and the idea of unworthy and worthy poor still dominates how social welfare is carried out.
Title: Re: The emergence of the American belief that anyone can be successful if they work hard enough ...
Post by: Helen Franklin on Sep 29, 2022
thank you