Question:Use your DiNitto and Johnson text, Social Welfare: Politics and Public Policy, to read the following:
Introduction, "Politics, Rationalism and Social Welfare," pages 1-12.
Chapter 1, "Politics and the Policymaking Process," pages 15-35.
Chapter 2, "Analyzing, Implementing and Evaluating Social Welfare Policy," pages 39-69.
Historic Moments
Connect to the links below to view or read about historic moments in the creation and expansion of social security policy:
Videos
. Franklin Roosevelt Social Security. In this video, Franklin Delano Roosevelt signs the Social Security Act of 1935.
. Ronald Reagan on Social Security, Part 1. In this video, Ronald Reagan signs the 1983 amendments to the Social Security Act.
. Ronald Reagan on Social Security, Part 2. This video continues Reagan''s 1983 speech.
Transcripts of Remarks
. Presidential Statement Signing the Social Security Act, August 14,1935.
. Remarks on Signing the Social Security Amendments of 1983.
Research Aids
Throughout this course you will be asked to locate articles that will provide content for discussions and assignments. The following resources will aid you in that task:
The Capella library links you to various information databases. An online tutorial is available to help you learn how to find an article in the library system.
Discussion Preparation
Select two social welfare policies that address a particular social problem or at-risk group. Examples of social problems are poverty, malnourishment, child abuse or neglect, domestic violence, homelessness, elderly abuse or neglect, juvenile delinquency, and overcrowded jails. Examples of at-risk groups are the disabled, elderly, welfare recipients, single parents living below the poverty level, children, minorities, the mentally challenged, the physically handicapped, and substance abusers.
Find one or more articles that address each of your selected policies. Be prepared to discuss them in this unit''s Social Welfare Policy discussion.
Project - Preparation
Throughout the course, you will complete a project in which you will critique the ability of social welfare policies to ameliorate a particular current social problem or issue. You should read the project description, and begin to consider issues that you would like to critique in this process. Keep in mind that the topic should address a problem that has resulted in social welfare programs and policies. Consider what interests you about the topic and what you anticipate you will learn from further analysis. You will be expected to substantiate the importance of the topic with references from academic research literature.
You will be asked to identify your topic in Unit 2.
Read the Social Policies Critique course project description to learn the requirements for your course project.
Discussion 2
Social Services and History
Explain how social problems encountered in early America and beyond contributed to social welfare reform. Consider some populations that have been most helped by social welfare policies implemented during the past 100 years. What have been the most significant programs, and what has made them so effective? Use academic research to substantiate your claim.
Response Guidelines
Respond to two learners. Do you agree or disagree with their analyses? Explain your thinking.