Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/welfare-state-origin
In today’s rapidly changing world, understanding the roots of social services in the United States is more important than ever. The Coursera course titled ‘US Social Services: Where did they come from?’ offers a comprehensive exploration of the historical development of social policy in the U.S., tracing its origins from early cultural practices to the establishment of the welfare state.
The course is structured into four main modules, each delving into different aspects of social policy formation.
1. **Early Roots of Social Policy**: This module sets the stage by examining the Poor Laws and their significant impact on American social policy. It highlights the contributions of early activists and influencers who shaped the discourse around social welfare. The insights gained here are invaluable for anyone looking to understand the foundational elements of social services.
2. **Roots of US Social Policy**: Moving into the modern era, this module discusses the evolution of social policy in industrial cities, focusing on critical areas such as public health, worker safety, and the early movements for racial equality. This section is particularly enlightening, as it connects historical events to contemporary social issues.
3. **The Beginnings of the Welfare State**: This module explores the transition to a federal role in social policy, detailing the establishment of welfare state institutions. Topics such as public works, employment, pensions, and public housing are covered, providing a thorough understanding of how these systems were developed to support families and communities.
4. **Safety Nets versus Entitlement**: The final module addresses the ongoing debates surrounding social policy, particularly the tensions between safety net programs and entitlement. This discussion is crucial for understanding current social policy debates and the challenges faced by social services today.
Overall, this course is a must-take for anyone interested in social work, public policy, or history. It provides a well-rounded perspective on the evolution of social services in the U.S. and encourages critical thinking about the future of these essential programs. The course is accessible, engaging, and packed with valuable information that will benefit students, professionals, and anyone interested in the social fabric of the United States.
I highly recommend enrolling in ‘US Social Services: Where did they come from?’ on Coursera. It’s an enlightening journey through history that will equip you with the knowledge to understand and engage with current social policy issues more effectively.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/welfare-state-origin