discussion

Reading

· Poverty in America (Iceland, 2013) Chapters: 2 & 5

· Our Kids (Putnam, 2015), Chapter 3

1. In the Poverty in America textbook (Iceland, 2013) the author discusses the concept of Social Stratification. You will need to argue which factor (economic growth, race, gender, class or culture)  is most important in explaining poverty. Back up your views with research from the textbook.

2. Do you think the research by Annette Lareau in Putnam’s book (2015) that describes “two class-based models of parenting in America society today,” concerted cultivation vs. natural growth (see page 118) is the best way to compare rich and poor parenting strategies?

3. Should the "haves" (i.e. the rich)  be responsible for the "have-nots" or should it solely be the responsibility of the government to help the poor?

4. What is the cut off point for providing aid (ie.  Poverty Line ,  TANF requirements ) and does too much 'taking care of' change the ideals of American culture, or does it incorporate the very essence of what America stands for?

 In your answer to questions #3 & #4 – though it is acceptable to state your opinions you should cite research to support and back up your viewpoints. 

1. You should back up your opinions and views with research to make your comments valid. 

1. Consider scientific, empirical or peer reviewed evidence or statistics to support your statements.

PART 2. 

1. Watch the following video Two American Families:

https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/film/two-american-families/

or try

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kXOa0sly9Rs&t=6908s

1. Bill Moyers’ July 9, 2013 Frontline documentary about two ordinary, hard-working families in Milwaukee. 

a. Summarize the movie and describe 3 challenges these two families faced trying to get by on their minimum wage earnings.

b. Discuss one of the biggest factors that could help each family out of poverty?

c. Remember to cite the Frontline video – (Moyers, 2013) in your answers to Part 2 and include a full citation for it in the reference page.