What if those who are oppressed in the US cannot pull themselves up by the bootstraps? How would you help?

Question

I believe that the majority of citizens in the US, unless belonging to minority groups or educated in systems theories and the effects of oppression, believe in the old adage that people who are in need simply should pull themselves up by the bootstraps. Often oversimplification of social problems compounds the problem and leaves those in need without the help they need. Conservatives would call this position whiny liberalism which is exactly the removed and callous position which is making problems in the US and around the world worse. It is not chance that conservatives being in power in the most influential and powerful nation in the world correlates with the worst foreign relations the US has had in decades. Imagine for a minute that those in need cannot simply pull themselves up by the so-called bootstraps. Imagine that hunger, poverty, crime, are directly linked to social systems and dynamics which need to be change by those in power. If true, what would it mean for you?

Answer 1

I disagree with your assertion that "oppressed" citizens cannot pull themselves up by their bootstraps. How would I help? By paying my taxes so all are given compulsory education.

"Social systems and dynamics (what)?" changed by those in power, how?

One of my favorite things about this wonderful country is the idea of self determination. I whole heartedly believe that any citizen of the United States can achieve what they want in their lifetime.

Governor Dick Lamm (D- Colo) said it best:
Please see the following quotes from Dick Lamm former democratic governor of the State of Colorado. (Links provided below)

"I m impressed, for instance, that minorities that have been discriminated against earn the highest family incomes in America. Japanese Americans, Jews, Chinese Americans, and Korean Americans all out-earn white Americans by substantial margins and all have faced discrimination and racism. We put Japanese Americans in camps 60 years ago and confiscated much of their property. Yet today they out-earn all other demographic groups. Discrimination and racism are social cancers and can never be justified but it is enlightening that, for these groups, they were a hurdle, not a barrier to success...
I suggest that those groups whose culture and values stress delayed gratification, education, hard work, success and ambition are those groups that succeed in America regardless of discrimination. I further suggest that, even if discrimination was removed, other groups would still have massive problems until they develop the traits that lead to success. Asian and Jewish children do twice as much homework as Black and Hispanic students, and get twice as good grades. Why should we be surprised?"

Please see my posted question regarding "diversity."

Answer 2

Nah, pulling up by the bootstraps isn't an over simplified or quixotic notion-- I'm a firm believer in it.

It takes incredible, even unjust, sacrifice to do so-- but that's the virtue in it, and that's why it sends a far stronger message than oppression ever can. I'm not suggesting we don't work against the social injustices you're calling out, but the most effective remedy, by far, is coming out on top in spite of the oppressions-- that's how you render them meaningless.

The act itself will sway more than any words ever could.

Answer 3

Unless they're physically or mentally unable to function, they can all get up and out of the mess they're in.

I've seen it happen, watched as a single mom, career welfare recipient got up off the couch, got a job and is now supporting herself and her kids. They just have to want to do it and have the encouragement and support needed.

Being on welfare is the worst thing that can be done to a person. They lose touch with reality, they have no self-esteem, they're constantly in a hopeless state and become lethargic about everything.

Maybe we need to take government funds out of the welfare system and put it into a mentoring system. I'd gladly mentor someone as I already have. The change in the person is impressive when they're actually using their life and skills for something positive.

Answer 4

some people need to pull the bootstraps to get the help. it is out there. i am a conservative, and i used to be against welfare and assistance programs. it is not as simple as"get a job". my wife, a master's holding social worker explained that most programs she knows of are hard to take advantage of, and actually have conditions with them. there is accountability in assistance. she changed my view. it is possible that more programs may be needed, but you are saying that there is no help because bush is in power, and i am sorry, but that is just not true. thank you for the points

Answer 5

I personally think we should quit funding other people's problems and focus on our own. I think we should take care of our own people before trying to help other countries take care of theirs.