The Contrast in Societal Attitudes
The societal attitudes towards those on welfare and food assistance programs, as contrasted with the treatment of wealthy individuals and corporations, present a stark disparity. The text “By contrast, wealthy people can become national celebrities… Corporate welfare (grants, tax breaks, subsidies, and other special treatment for corporations) cost taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars a year … Boeing receives $13 billion in government handouts and everyone yawns … Where is the outrage?” highlights this disparity. It points out how support for social programs for low-income individuals is scrutinized and criticized, while corporate welfare is often overlooked.
Personal Experience with Money
Reflecting on personal experiences with money, the text resonates deeply, especially considering the negative attitudes and beliefs towards those on welfare and food assistance programs. Growing up with a fear of not having enough money, influenced by parents who acted as if on the brink of poverty, has shaped many aspects of life, including career choices and spending habits. Experiencing financial hardships, such as job loss, being scammed, and making poor investment decisions, has brought these fears to the forefront. This personal journey mirrors the societal double standards where the wealthy are celebrated, and the poor are shamed.
Societal Gaslighting and Double Standards
The societal gaslighting of “you just need to work harder” overlooks the privileges and support systems that many wealthy individuals have. This mantra misrepresents reality for those who admire the wealthy, adding to the stress of populations striving for wealth. The shame associated with being on food stamps and the skewed societal perspective where corporate welfare is accepted, but individual welfare is stigmatized, reflects a deep societal issue.
Research on Public Attitudes Towards Welfare
Research from Social Forces develops a causal model of the determinants of public attitudes toward welfare state programs. It suggests that support for welfare state programs is influenced by self-interest and identification with dominant social ideologies like work ethic and social equality. The findings indicate that the social groups supporting the welfare state are the economically and socially vulnerable who identify with social democratic values.
Conclusion
The societal attitudes towards welfare and corporate welfare reflect deep-seated biases and double standards. Personal experiences of financial hardship and societal gaslighting highlight the need for a more empathetic and realistic understanding of economic struggles. The research on public attitudes towards welfare programs underscores the influence of social ideologies and the importance of supporting vulnerable groups. This passage not only highlights societal biases but also mirrors internal conflicts and fears that shape daily life and perspectives on economic status.
Source: Social Forces – The Determinants of Public Attitudes Toward the Welfare State
This source discusses the determinants of public attitudes toward welfare state programs, highlighting how support for welfare state programs is influenced by self-interest and identification with dominant social ideologies like work ethic and social equality. It suggests that the social groups supporting the welfare state are the economically and socially vulnerable who identify with social democratic values.
