Click on this site to read an article that is critical of the way poverty is measured in the U.S. Write an essay in which you describe those criticisms. Be sure to notice that the system is criticized from more than one side. Finish your essay by indicating where you stand on the issue. Be sure to explain why you take the position you do.
In late 1999 NYC mayor Rudolph Guiliani announced a plan to put homeless people, including those who have children, to work in exchange for shelter. Click on the link above to read an article about the plan and some responses to it. Write an essay in which you describe the plan and its rationale, the criticisms raised against it and Mayor Guiliani's response to the criticisms. Be sure to indicate and defend your own view on this matter.
After you have read Charles Murray's "The Coming White Underclass," click on the link above to read a recent article about steps the federal government has taken to decrease the rate at which children are born to unmarried mothers. Write an essay in which you describe the requirements put in place by the government and the rewards offered to states that meet the requirements. How would Murray regard this program? What is your view on programs like this? Are there any changes you would make? Be sure to explain why you take the position you do.
