In Segal Chapter 5, the question of the government’s role in meeting the needs of citizens is discussed.
1. Question – should the government be in the business of providing services? Should there be public services? What arguments can you make for and against the question?
2. Although there have been laws and regulations enacted to ensure the civil rights of all citizens, the perception of progress differs greatly based on race. In your opinion, what prevents formal laws and regulations from impacting social change in major ways? Can laws alone create social change? What role can social workers play?
3. The Segal text defines relative poverty as: ‘poverty based on societal standards for assessing the minimum need for a reasonable living situation.’ Based on your understanding of the role of social work, and the dignity and worth of every human being, what does a ‘reasonable living situation’ entail. Please be as detailed as possible.