Is America on the wrong track? -- The role of government -- The usual suspects -- What do we need to explain? -- Why legislation is often badly designed -- Why regulation makes so many people angry -- Why working people and the poor do badly -- Bringing government closer to the people --...

"The 40-year history of how Democrats chose political convenience over addressing inequality--and how the poor have paid the price. For decades, the Republican party has been known as the party of the rich: arguing for "business-friendly" policies like deregulation and tax cuts. But as our...

"Ever since Lyndon Johnson launched his "War on Poverty," each presidential administration has engaged in a unique effort to help impoverished Americans. Though every president inherited the remnants of his predecessors' policies, each sought to make his own mark and secure his own place in...

Introduction -- Social welfare in the new nation, 1776-1865 -- America confronts poverty, 1776-1860 -- Modern America, modern problems: 1860-1900 -- Scientific charity, 1850-1900 -- Progress in social welfare, 1895-1929 -- The birth of a profession: 1898-1930 -- Crises: the great depression and...