The Great Recession has significantly impacted Americans' lives over the past 30 months in several ways:
It has led to downsized expectations for retirement and children's futures, as well as increased frugality in spending and borrowing. More than half of American workers have experienced job or income losses. Household wealth has declined an estimated 20% on average, the sharpest drop since World War II. Certain groups have been disproportionately affected, including blacks, Hispanics, young adults, and those with less education. While optimism about a recovery is rising, most Americans believe it will take years for finances and home values to fully rebound from the recession's effects.
The new normal in the United States is not anything like it was just a few years ago. Fear and anxiety have replaced confidence and hope when it comes to the economy, and the effects have been felt from the family den to the White House. Optimism is out and pessimism is in, with Americans questioning the future of health care, education, jobs and the political direction of the country. In February 2010, Euro RSCG Worldwide PR and Euro RSCG Life, the public relations arm and the health-focused communications network of Euro RSCG Worldwide, a leading integrated marketing communications agency, commissioned two surveys to try to gauge the mood of Americans on these hot-button issues and others. One survey questioned people nationwide; the other polled residents of Connecticut. Research partners MicroDialogue deployed the two surveys, with each questioning a random and representative sample of 386 people age 18 and older, then analyzed the data. The resultant “U.S. Mind and Mood” white paper provides a series of snapshots of a nation living in a precarious present.
- April 2010
This study examines political ideological divides and views on assistance to the poor in the United States. Survey data from the General Social Survey is analyzed, looking at the relationship between income level, political ideology, and views on spending on assistance to the poor. The results show that lower-income individuals and those who identify as more liberal are more likely to believe not enough is spent on assistance. However, a majority across all income levels and political ideologies believe too little is spent. Ethnographic interviews provide further qualitative insight. The findings contradict some prior literature by suggesting the political divide on this issue may not be as stark as portrayed.
The document provides an introduction to understanding American men at the beginning of a new decade. It discusses that America is a diverse, immigrant nation making generalizations difficult. However, some common traits unite American men, such as a distinctive patriotism shaped by the country being founded by its people rather than inherited history. American men are also shaped by the interaction between their innate traits, national dreams/values expressed in media, and public debates exercising free speech rights. To understand American men, the document will examine realities, male icons, and influential memes.
This document provides an overview of American men in the early 2010s by examining realities, icons, and memes. It discusses the changing demographics of the US, with declining white population percentages and growing ethnic diversity. Economically, it notes the illusion of widespread prosperity fueled by debt, and outlines the current realities of uneven wealth distribution and declining prospects for many working-class men. It then examines prominent male icons from Hollywood and how they have reflected changing ideals of American manhood over time. Finally, it introduces the concept of "thought viruses" or memes that animate American cultural and political debates.
Family CROSSroads, Lesson 2: "The Target: Young People & Families"roberthatfield
Family CROSSroads class series, lesson 2
"The Target: Young People and Families"
Presented Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at the North Charleston church of Christ -- http://northcharlestonchurchofchrist.com
Political cycles in the US and UK have influenced economic performance and equity markets over the past several decades. In the US, Republican and Democratic parties have alternated in power, with strong economic periods under Reagan in the 1980s, Clinton in the 1990s, and Bush in the 2000s. Similarly, the UK saw booms under Thatcher in the 1980s and Blair in the 1990s. Going forward, challenges around inflation, entitlement spending, and government resistance to reform may slow growth. The 2006 US elections may strengthen Democrats and slow policy changes, while Blair's support in the UK will likely continue falling.
Tapping Lost Potential paper for Gary GottliebJay Kemp Smith
This document proposes a partnership between the government and private sector to increase research funding for chronic illnesses. It notes that while chronic illnesses cost the government billions annually, very little is invested in research for cures. The proposal is for a law allowing private companies to receive a share of the tax revenues from any individuals they cure of chronic illnesses, providing an incentive for more private sector research investment. The summary argues this "win-win-win" approach could benefit individuals afflicted, government budgets, and the economy through increased cures and productivity. Some challenges to implementing such a profit-sharing scheme are also acknowledged.
This document summarizes key aspects of measuring and understanding public opinion in the United States. It discusses how public opinion is defined and measured through polling. Polls must use representative sampling, carefully worded questions, and account for respondent knowledge and biases. Many factors influence political attitudes, including family, gender, religion, education, social class, race, and geography. Ideology in the U.S. is generally viewed on a liberal-conservative spectrum, though definitions have changed over time. Most Americans do not have highly ideological views and vote based on group interests or current economic conditions.
The new normal in the United States is not anything like it was just a few years ago. Fear and anxiety have replaced confidence and hope when it comes to the economy, and the effects have been felt from the family den to the White House. Optimism is out and pessimism is in, with Americans questioning the future of health care, education, jobs and the political direction of the country. In February 2010, Euro RSCG Worldwide PR and Euro RSCG Life, the public relations arm and the health-focused communications network of Euro RSCG Worldwide, a leading integrated marketing communications agency, commissioned two surveys to try to gauge the mood of Americans on these hot-button issues and others. One survey questioned people nationwide; the other polled residents of Connecticut. Research partners MicroDialogue deployed the two surveys, with each questioning a random and representative sample of 386 people age 18 and older, then analyzed the data. The resultant “U.S. Mind and Mood” white paper provides a series of snapshots of a nation living in a precarious present.
- April 2010
This study examines political ideological divides and views on assistance to the poor in the United States. Survey data from the General Social Survey is analyzed, looking at the relationship between income level, political ideology, and views on spending on assistance to the poor. The results show that lower-income individuals and those who identify as more liberal are more likely to believe not enough is spent on assistance. However, a majority across all income levels and political ideologies believe too little is spent. Ethnographic interviews provide further qualitative insight. The findings contradict some prior literature by suggesting the political divide on this issue may not be as stark as portrayed.
The document provides an introduction to understanding American men at the beginning of a new decade. It discusses that America is a diverse, immigrant nation making generalizations difficult. However, some common traits unite American men, such as a distinctive patriotism shaped by the country being founded by its people rather than inherited history. American men are also shaped by the interaction between their innate traits, national dreams/values expressed in media, and public debates exercising free speech rights. To understand American men, the document will examine realities, male icons, and influential memes.
This document provides an overview of American men in the early 2010s by examining realities, icons, and memes. It discusses the changing demographics of the US, with declining white population percentages and growing ethnic diversity. Economically, it notes the illusion of widespread prosperity fueled by debt, and outlines the current realities of uneven wealth distribution and declining prospects for many working-class men. It then examines prominent male icons from Hollywood and how they have reflected changing ideals of American manhood over time. Finally, it introduces the concept of "thought viruses" or memes that animate American cultural and political debates.
Family CROSSroads, Lesson 2: "The Target: Young People & Families"roberthatfield
Family CROSSroads class series, lesson 2
"The Target: Young People and Families"
Presented Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at the North Charleston church of Christ -- http://northcharlestonchurchofchrist.com
Political cycles in the US and UK have influenced economic performance and equity markets over the past several decades. In the US, Republican and Democratic parties have alternated in power, with strong economic periods under Reagan in the 1980s, Clinton in the 1990s, and Bush in the 2000s. Similarly, the UK saw booms under Thatcher in the 1980s and Blair in the 1990s. Going forward, challenges around inflation, entitlement spending, and government resistance to reform may slow growth. The 2006 US elections may strengthen Democrats and slow policy changes, while Blair's support in the UK will likely continue falling.
Tapping Lost Potential paper for Gary GottliebJay Kemp Smith
This document proposes a partnership between the government and private sector to increase research funding for chronic illnesses. It notes that while chronic illnesses cost the government billions annually, very little is invested in research for cures. The proposal is for a law allowing private companies to receive a share of the tax revenues from any individuals they cure of chronic illnesses, providing an incentive for more private sector research investment. The summary argues this "win-win-win" approach could benefit individuals afflicted, government budgets, and the economy through increased cures and productivity. Some challenges to implementing such a profit-sharing scheme are also acknowledged.
This document summarizes key aspects of measuring and understanding public opinion in the United States. It discusses how public opinion is defined and measured through polling. Polls must use representative sampling, carefully worded questions, and account for respondent knowledge and biases. Many factors influence political attitudes, including family, gender, religion, education, social class, race, and geography. Ideology in the U.S. is generally viewed on a liberal-conservative spectrum, though definitions have changed over time. Most Americans do not have highly ideological views and vote based on group interests or current economic conditions.
This document summarizes research on millennial housing demand in the United States. It finds that millennial household formation and homeownership have been suppressed since the Great Recession due to high unemployment, stagnant incomes, high student debt loads, and barriers to mortgage credit. However, as millennials age and economic conditions continue improving, their housing demand is projected to increase and support growth in both the rental and homeownership markets. The large size of the millennial generation means unlocking their housing potential could have significant implications, including boosting demand for affordable rentals and expanding access to homeownership through low down payment loans and outreach to minority groups.
- The document discusses a survey of Americans ages 50-70 who have experienced "retirement derailers," or unexpected life events that disrupted their retirement plans.
- The average respondent experienced four derailers which cost $117,000 in savings. Common derailers included market declines during the recession and supporting children/grandchildren.
- Despite setbacks, most respondents viewed their path to retirement positively. However, over half said derailers seriously impacted their finances, with more derailers linked to greater costs.
Nancy Tran
Special Thanks:
Denzil McKenzie, Honorary Consul for Jamaica in Boston
Jamaican Associates, Inc.
For more informa on contact:
Research@bostonredevelopmentauthority.org
617.918.4282
Brazil’s unfinished business - A view on the presidential electionsBrunswick Group
This document provides an overview and analysis of Brazil's 2014 presidential election. The key points are:
1) Incumbent president Dilma Rousseff has lost her early lead in polls to environmentalist candidate Marina Silva, who has surged in popularity following the death of her running mate.
2) Brazil is facing economic challenges like slowing growth and high inflation, and many feel opportunities were missed to implement reforms that could have strengthened the economy.
3) Whoever wins will have tough policy choices to balance fiscal responsibility with spending on priorities like education, while addressing structural issues holding back growth. Silva's platform in particular would represent an uncharted direction for Brazil.
Americans are growing increasingly pessimistic about the state of the economy as unemployment remains high and consumer confidence declines. While reducing the budget deficit is viewed as important, there is no consensus on how best to achieve this. Opinions of President Obama's handling of the economy have weakened, with more Americans now trusting Republicans to do a better job on economic issues.
National Final Poverty Day Report 2013 DataLecia Imbery
The document summarizes new census data that shows millions of Americans are still struggling with poverty, even years after the Great Recession ended. Key points:
- 14.5% of Americans (45.3 million) lived in poverty in 2013, similar to 2009 levels at the end of the recession.
- Child poverty declined slightly but remains high, especially for children of color.
- Programs like SNAP, Medicaid, EITC and housing assistance have helped millions but funding cuts risk leaving more unable to access assistance.
- Proposed budgets and plans risk increasing poverty by cutting these programs rather than making needed investments.
Public opinion landscape the economy - sept 8GloverParkGroup
Americans are growing increasingly pessimistic about the economy according to recent polls. While not blaming Obama directly for the current conditions, voters are frustrated that his policies have not improved the economy or led to more job growth. Obama's approval ratings have reached their lowest levels, driven by dissatisfaction with his handling of the economy and budget deficit. There is debate around how best to lower the deficit, with Americans wanting action but differing on whether spending cuts or tax increases on high earners are preferable.
Organizational Analysis of US Department of StateBrendan Scott
This document provides an analysis of organizational challenges faced by the U.S. Department of State, specifically related to high turnover rates among Foreign Service Officers. Frequent rotations between posts every 2-3 years means officers lack time to develop location-specific expertise and long-term initiatives are discouraged in favor of short-term goals that can be demonstrated on evaluations. The author recommends reducing inefficiencies from high turnover by creating a lessons learned database for incoming officers and establishing long-term strategic plans at each post to encourage sustainability over individual objectives.
International affairs deck version b - august 2011GloverParkGroup
This document provides an overview of public opinion in the United States and globally on international affairs issues in 2011, finding that most Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction and disapprove of President Obama's handling of the economy, while Kenyans and Japanese hold the most favorable views of the United States and American people according to global surveys. It also examines attitudes among Muslim Americans, finding that a majority reject extremism and are Democrats who are more satisfied with the country than the general public.
The document argues that the two-party political system in the United States has become problematic and ineffective at addressing the country's most pressing issues. It has led to increased gridlock and partisan bickering. The threat of a government shutdown last month underscores this problem. Many Americans now feel the two-party system is inadequate. A multi-party system could offer more viable options for voters and allow more comprehensive solutions to issues. However, some argue more parties may cause confusion and weaken the political system. But today's circumstances require a different approach to find solutions to the economic problems facing the country.
The document discusses various government responses to social and economic issues in the United States such as employment, poverty, education, healthcare, housing, and crime. It outlines programs like TANF, food stamps, grants for education, and acts like No Child Left Behind that aim to help low-income families and improve opportunities for minorities. While progress has been made in reducing poverty, increasing education levels and homeownership among minorities, inequalities still persist in the US due to economic reasons like lack of funding for social services, social reasons like lack of role models, and political challenges in enacting change.
- Opposition to the health reform law remains stronger than support, and views on health reform remain strongly partisan.
- Americans have mixed opinions about the current and future impact of health reform. Most think Medicare has financial problems but budget issues can be addressed without Medicare cuts.
- Health care premiums and workers' contributions have greatly increased in the past ten years, with half or more reporting higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
- Americans express limited approval of any leaders on health care issues.
The survey found that in early 2010, one year into Barack Obama's presidency, the mind and mood of Americans was downbeat rather than optimistic. Many Americans appear to have "hunkered down" in response to ongoing economic stresses, becoming less socially and politically engaged. They expressed significant pessimism about financial and economic issues and were uncertain about healthcare reform efforts. While some were actively fighting or protesting issues, others seemed to have adopted a "freeze" response by socially withdrawing and focusing inward on basic necessities.
The survey found that in early 2010, one year into Barack Obama's presidency, Americans were down rather than up, resentful rather than grateful, and pessimistic rather than optimistic. Many Americans appear to have "hunkered down" in response to stress over the past year, decreasing activities and turning inward. There is widespread distrust of politicians and a loss of confidence in American politics. While some have become more active in response to current issues, others have decreased activities like volunteering, suggesting many Americans have adopted a "freeze" response to stress. Overall, the national mind and mood shows anxiety, uncertainty, and a lack of optimism about the future.
16 contexts.orgrethinkingamericanpovertyby mark r. rank.docxfelicidaddinwoodie
16 contexts.org
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
17spring 2011 contexts
food stamps at some point during childhood. Life expectancy in
Harlem is shorter than in Bangladesh. The bottom 60 percent
of the American population currently holds less than 1 percent
of the financial wealth in the country. And two thirds of the
counties that black children are growing up in are considered
high poverty with respect to impoverished neighborhoods.
Although there are several possible explanations for why
these conditions exist, the argument developed here is that a
major reason has to do with how we as a society have tended
to conceptualize the issue of poverty and, based upon this
thinking, how we have acted (or better put, failed to act) toward
the issue.
The traditional manner of thinking about poverty in the
U.S. has viewed impoverishment as largely the result of individ-
ual inadequacies and failings. These shortcomings include not
working hard enough, failure to acquire sufficient skills, or just
making bad decisions. Consequently, the problem of poverty is
often seen through a lens of individual pathology. Since indi-
viduals are perceived as having brought poverty onto them-
selves, our collective and societal obligations are seen as limited.
The age-old distinction between the deserving versus the unde-
serving poor reflects this perspective—unless the working-age
poor have very good grounds for their
poverty, they’re deemed largely unde-
serving of help. Poverty is therefore
understood as primarily affecting those
who choose not to play by the rules of
the game. Ultimately, this perspective reflects and reinforces
the myths and ideals of American society: there are economic
opportunities for all, individualism and self-reliance are para-
mount, and hard work is rewarded.
This overall mindset has long influenced both the general
public’s attitudes toward the poor and much of the policy and
academic work analyzing poverty. Nevertheless, it seriously mis-
construes the true nature of poverty and fosters a lack of polit-
ical and social will to address the problem itself. Three major
chan ...
16 contexts.orgrethinkingamericanpovertyby mark r. rank.docxdrennanmicah
16 contexts.org
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
17spring 2011 contexts
food stamps at some point during childhood. Life expectancy in
Harlem is shorter than in Bangladesh. The bottom 60 percent
of the American population currently holds less than 1 percent
of the financial wealth in the country. And two thirds of the
counties that black children are growing up in are considered
high poverty with respect to impoverished neighborhoods.
Although there are several possible explanations for why
these conditions exist, the argument developed here is that a
major reason has to do with how we as a society have tended
to conceptualize the issue of poverty and, based upon this
thinking, how we have acted (or better put, failed to act) toward
the issue.
The traditional manner of thinking about poverty in the
U.S. has viewed impoverishment as largely the result of individ-
ual inadequacies and failings. These shortcomings include not
working hard enough, failure to acquire sufficient skills, or just
making bad decisions. Consequently, the problem of poverty is
often seen through a lens of individual pathology. Since indi-
viduals are perceived as having brought poverty onto them-
selves, our collective and societal obligations are seen as limited.
The age-old distinction between the deserving versus the unde-
serving poor reflects this perspective—unless the working-age
poor have very good grounds for their
poverty, they’re deemed largely unde-
serving of help. Poverty is therefore
understood as primarily affecting those
who choose not to play by the rules of
the game. Ultimately, this perspective reflects and reinforces
the myths and ideals of American society: there are economic
opportunities for all, individualism and self-reliance are para-
mount, and hard work is rewarded.
This overall mindset has long influenced both the general
public’s attitudes toward the poor and much of the policy and
academic work analyzing poverty. Nevertheless, it seriously mis-
construes the true nature of poverty and fosters a lack of polit-
ical and social will to address the problem itself. Three major
chan.
Read Kraft & Furlong Chapters 9Chapter 9 Welfare and Social .docxAbhinav816839
This document discusses poverty and social welfare programs in the United States. It provides statistics on poverty rates over time and how they vary among different demographic groups. It also examines different perspectives on the causes of poverty and debates around the appropriate role of government programs. The document focuses in particular on Social Security, describing it as the largest federal program that provides income for retired workers, their beneficiaries, and disabled workers. It outlines who is eligible for Social Security benefits and how the program is financed through a tax on income.
The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown American life into chaos and, over the last eight weeks, Consumer Brands’ weekly coronavirus survey has proven that this new normal is anything but. Now, as some states extend stay-at-home orders and others begin to reopen for business, this week’s survey — and the last eight weeks of consumer concerns — show that we may be at a turning point for how Americans feel about coronavirus and its effect on their lives.
In July 2009 we released findings from an extensive research initiative focusing on how Americans were dealing with the unfolding recession. In that report, we outlined many issues and challenges faced by people in these turbulent times. But our data also revealed opportunity amidst the gloom, and this became the basis for suggesting a number of paths of possibility for brands.
The 2009 release reflected analysis of data collected in late March/early April of that year from a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. Six months later, in October 2009, we fielded a tracking wave in order to understand what movement, if any, had occurred in terms of recession-related attitudes and behaviors. While some measures revealed a slightly less frightened consumer profile, the data overall did not paint an encouraging picture for brands.
Now, two years since our first report, we’ve completed another update, tracking many of the same measures as well as some new ones, this time among a sample of over 1200 American adults -- half interviewed in January 2011 and half in May 2011.
While there are some bright spots here and there in the data, we mostly see a picture of still-broad weakness in people’s attitudes and behaviors. This suggests the country has a long way to go before confidence in the national economy and in one’s personal financial situation is strong enough to resume robust consumer spending. The recession may be technically over, but for most Americans it is simply not so.
This document summarizes research on millennial housing demand in the United States. It finds that millennial household formation and homeownership have been suppressed since the Great Recession due to high unemployment, stagnant incomes, high student debt loads, and barriers to mortgage credit. However, as millennials age and economic conditions continue improving, their housing demand is projected to increase and support growth in both the rental and homeownership markets. The large size of the millennial generation means unlocking their housing potential could have significant implications, including boosting demand for affordable rentals and expanding access to homeownership through low down payment loans and outreach to minority groups.
- The document discusses a survey of Americans ages 50-70 who have experienced "retirement derailers," or unexpected life events that disrupted their retirement plans.
- The average respondent experienced four derailers which cost $117,000 in savings. Common derailers included market declines during the recession and supporting children/grandchildren.
- Despite setbacks, most respondents viewed their path to retirement positively. However, over half said derailers seriously impacted their finances, with more derailers linked to greater costs.
Nancy Tran
Special Thanks:
Denzil McKenzie, Honorary Consul for Jamaica in Boston
Jamaican Associates, Inc.
For more informa on contact:
Research@bostonredevelopmentauthority.org
617.918.4282
Brazil’s unfinished business - A view on the presidential electionsBrunswick Group
This document provides an overview and analysis of Brazil's 2014 presidential election. The key points are:
1) Incumbent president Dilma Rousseff has lost her early lead in polls to environmentalist candidate Marina Silva, who has surged in popularity following the death of her running mate.
2) Brazil is facing economic challenges like slowing growth and high inflation, and many feel opportunities were missed to implement reforms that could have strengthened the economy.
3) Whoever wins will have tough policy choices to balance fiscal responsibility with spending on priorities like education, while addressing structural issues holding back growth. Silva's platform in particular would represent an uncharted direction for Brazil.
Americans are growing increasingly pessimistic about the state of the economy as unemployment remains high and consumer confidence declines. While reducing the budget deficit is viewed as important, there is no consensus on how best to achieve this. Opinions of President Obama's handling of the economy have weakened, with more Americans now trusting Republicans to do a better job on economic issues.
National Final Poverty Day Report 2013 DataLecia Imbery
The document summarizes new census data that shows millions of Americans are still struggling with poverty, even years after the Great Recession ended. Key points:
- 14.5% of Americans (45.3 million) lived in poverty in 2013, similar to 2009 levels at the end of the recession.
- Child poverty declined slightly but remains high, especially for children of color.
- Programs like SNAP, Medicaid, EITC and housing assistance have helped millions but funding cuts risk leaving more unable to access assistance.
- Proposed budgets and plans risk increasing poverty by cutting these programs rather than making needed investments.
Public opinion landscape the economy - sept 8GloverParkGroup
Americans are growing increasingly pessimistic about the economy according to recent polls. While not blaming Obama directly for the current conditions, voters are frustrated that his policies have not improved the economy or led to more job growth. Obama's approval ratings have reached their lowest levels, driven by dissatisfaction with his handling of the economy and budget deficit. There is debate around how best to lower the deficit, with Americans wanting action but differing on whether spending cuts or tax increases on high earners are preferable.
Organizational Analysis of US Department of StateBrendan Scott
This document provides an analysis of organizational challenges faced by the U.S. Department of State, specifically related to high turnover rates among Foreign Service Officers. Frequent rotations between posts every 2-3 years means officers lack time to develop location-specific expertise and long-term initiatives are discouraged in favor of short-term goals that can be demonstrated on evaluations. The author recommends reducing inefficiencies from high turnover by creating a lessons learned database for incoming officers and establishing long-term strategic plans at each post to encourage sustainability over individual objectives.
International affairs deck version b - august 2011GloverParkGroup
This document provides an overview of public opinion in the United States and globally on international affairs issues in 2011, finding that most Americans believe the country is headed in the wrong direction and disapprove of President Obama's handling of the economy, while Kenyans and Japanese hold the most favorable views of the United States and American people according to global surveys. It also examines attitudes among Muslim Americans, finding that a majority reject extremism and are Democrats who are more satisfied with the country than the general public.
The document argues that the two-party political system in the United States has become problematic and ineffective at addressing the country's most pressing issues. It has led to increased gridlock and partisan bickering. The threat of a government shutdown last month underscores this problem. Many Americans now feel the two-party system is inadequate. A multi-party system could offer more viable options for voters and allow more comprehensive solutions to issues. However, some argue more parties may cause confusion and weaken the political system. But today's circumstances require a different approach to find solutions to the economic problems facing the country.
The document discusses various government responses to social and economic issues in the United States such as employment, poverty, education, healthcare, housing, and crime. It outlines programs like TANF, food stamps, grants for education, and acts like No Child Left Behind that aim to help low-income families and improve opportunities for minorities. While progress has been made in reducing poverty, increasing education levels and homeownership among minorities, inequalities still persist in the US due to economic reasons like lack of funding for social services, social reasons like lack of role models, and political challenges in enacting change.
- Opposition to the health reform law remains stronger than support, and views on health reform remain strongly partisan.
- Americans have mixed opinions about the current and future impact of health reform. Most think Medicare has financial problems but budget issues can be addressed without Medicare cuts.
- Health care premiums and workers' contributions have greatly increased in the past ten years, with half or more reporting higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
- Americans express limited approval of any leaders on health care issues.
The survey found that in early 2010, one year into Barack Obama's presidency, the mind and mood of Americans was downbeat rather than optimistic. Many Americans appear to have "hunkered down" in response to ongoing economic stresses, becoming less socially and politically engaged. They expressed significant pessimism about financial and economic issues and were uncertain about healthcare reform efforts. While some were actively fighting or protesting issues, others seemed to have adopted a "freeze" response by socially withdrawing and focusing inward on basic necessities.
The survey found that in early 2010, one year into Barack Obama's presidency, Americans were down rather than up, resentful rather than grateful, and pessimistic rather than optimistic. Many Americans appear to have "hunkered down" in response to stress over the past year, decreasing activities and turning inward. There is widespread distrust of politicians and a loss of confidence in American politics. While some have become more active in response to current issues, others have decreased activities like volunteering, suggesting many Americans have adopted a "freeze" response to stress. Overall, the national mind and mood shows anxiety, uncertainty, and a lack of optimism about the future.
16 contexts.orgrethinkingamericanpovertyby mark r. rank.docxfelicidaddinwoodie
16 contexts.org
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
17spring 2011 contexts
food stamps at some point during childhood. Life expectancy in
Harlem is shorter than in Bangladesh. The bottom 60 percent
of the American population currently holds less than 1 percent
of the financial wealth in the country. And two thirds of the
counties that black children are growing up in are considered
high poverty with respect to impoverished neighborhoods.
Although there are several possible explanations for why
these conditions exist, the argument developed here is that a
major reason has to do with how we as a society have tended
to conceptualize the issue of poverty and, based upon this
thinking, how we have acted (or better put, failed to act) toward
the issue.
The traditional manner of thinking about poverty in the
U.S. has viewed impoverishment as largely the result of individ-
ual inadequacies and failings. These shortcomings include not
working hard enough, failure to acquire sufficient skills, or just
making bad decisions. Consequently, the problem of poverty is
often seen through a lens of individual pathology. Since indi-
viduals are perceived as having brought poverty onto them-
selves, our collective and societal obligations are seen as limited.
The age-old distinction between the deserving versus the unde-
serving poor reflects this perspective—unless the working-age
poor have very good grounds for their
poverty, they’re deemed largely unde-
serving of help. Poverty is therefore
understood as primarily affecting those
who choose not to play by the rules of
the game. Ultimately, this perspective reflects and reinforces
the myths and ideals of American society: there are economic
opportunities for all, individualism and self-reliance are para-
mount, and hard work is rewarded.
This overall mindset has long influenced both the general
public’s attitudes toward the poor and much of the policy and
academic work analyzing poverty. Nevertheless, it seriously mis-
construes the true nature of poverty and fosters a lack of polit-
ical and social will to address the problem itself. Three major
chan ...
16 contexts.orgrethinkingamericanpovertyby mark r. rank.docxdrennanmicah
16 contexts.org
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
It’s a fundamental paradox: in America,
the wealthiest country on earth, one also
finds the highest rates of poverty in the
developed world. Whether we examine
children’s rates of poverty, poverty
among working age adults, poverty
within single parent families, or overall
rates of poverty, the story is much the
same—the United States has exceedingly
high levels of impoverishment.
rethinkingamericanpoverty
by mark r. rank
17spring 2011 contexts
food stamps at some point during childhood. Life expectancy in
Harlem is shorter than in Bangladesh. The bottom 60 percent
of the American population currently holds less than 1 percent
of the financial wealth in the country. And two thirds of the
counties that black children are growing up in are considered
high poverty with respect to impoverished neighborhoods.
Although there are several possible explanations for why
these conditions exist, the argument developed here is that a
major reason has to do with how we as a society have tended
to conceptualize the issue of poverty and, based upon this
thinking, how we have acted (or better put, failed to act) toward
the issue.
The traditional manner of thinking about poverty in the
U.S. has viewed impoverishment as largely the result of individ-
ual inadequacies and failings. These shortcomings include not
working hard enough, failure to acquire sufficient skills, or just
making bad decisions. Consequently, the problem of poverty is
often seen through a lens of individual pathology. Since indi-
viduals are perceived as having brought poverty onto them-
selves, our collective and societal obligations are seen as limited.
The age-old distinction between the deserving versus the unde-
serving poor reflects this perspective—unless the working-age
poor have very good grounds for their
poverty, they’re deemed largely unde-
serving of help. Poverty is therefore
understood as primarily affecting those
who choose not to play by the rules of
the game. Ultimately, this perspective reflects and reinforces
the myths and ideals of American society: there are economic
opportunities for all, individualism and self-reliance are para-
mount, and hard work is rewarded.
This overall mindset has long influenced both the general
public’s attitudes toward the poor and much of the policy and
academic work analyzing poverty. Nevertheless, it seriously mis-
construes the true nature of poverty and fosters a lack of polit-
ical and social will to address the problem itself. Three major
chan.
Read Kraft & Furlong Chapters 9Chapter 9 Welfare and Social .docxAbhinav816839
This document discusses poverty and social welfare programs in the United States. It provides statistics on poverty rates over time and how they vary among different demographic groups. It also examines different perspectives on the causes of poverty and debates around the appropriate role of government programs. The document focuses in particular on Social Security, describing it as the largest federal program that provides income for retired workers, their beneficiaries, and disabled workers. It outlines who is eligible for Social Security benefits and how the program is financed through a tax on income.
The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown American life into chaos and, over the last eight weeks, Consumer Brands’ weekly coronavirus survey has proven that this new normal is anything but. Now, as some states extend stay-at-home orders and others begin to reopen for business, this week’s survey — and the last eight weeks of consumer concerns — show that we may be at a turning point for how Americans feel about coronavirus and its effect on their lives.
In July 2009 we released findings from an extensive research initiative focusing on how Americans were dealing with the unfolding recession. In that report, we outlined many issues and challenges faced by people in these turbulent times. But our data also revealed opportunity amidst the gloom, and this became the basis for suggesting a number of paths of possibility for brands.
The 2009 release reflected analysis of data collected in late March/early April of that year from a nationally representative sample of 1,000 American adults. Six months later, in October 2009, we fielded a tracking wave in order to understand what movement, if any, had occurred in terms of recession-related attitudes and behaviors. While some measures revealed a slightly less frightened consumer profile, the data overall did not paint an encouraging picture for brands.
Now, two years since our first report, we’ve completed another update, tracking many of the same measures as well as some new ones, this time among a sample of over 1200 American adults -- half interviewed in January 2011 and half in May 2011.
While there are some bright spots here and there in the data, we mostly see a picture of still-broad weakness in people’s attitudes and behaviors. This suggests the country has a long way to go before confidence in the national economy and in one’s personal financial situation is strong enough to resume robust consumer spending. The recession may be technically over, but for most Americans it is simply not so.
Why Baby Boomers Will Need To Work Longerlalitranka
Most US baby boomers are unprepared for retirement financially and will need to work longer to avoid a decline in living standards. Research shows that increasing the median retirement age by 2 years could add $13 trillion to GDP over 30 years and cut in half the number of unprepared households. However, barriers like healthcare costs, laws, and corporate attitudes need to change to allow and encourage longer careers for older workers. Adjusting policies around health insurance, flexible work arrangements, and pensions could help boomers and the economy.
In early 2015, 120.8 million adults were in middle-income households, compared with 121.3 million in lower- and upper-income households combined, a demographic shift that could signal a tipping point, according to a new Pew Research Center analysis of government data.
Survey on Attitudes Towards the EconomyBradleyHonan
StrategyOne conducted a survey of 1,050 Americans to assess their economic outlook. Key findings include:
- 65% believe a double-dip recession is likely and 72% feel Europe's financial problems will harm the US recovery.
- Americans report being financially and emotionally impacted by the recession, with many delaying major life decisions.
- A majority are not seeing signs of recovery where they live and work, with 70% expecting full recovery will not occur until late 2011 or later.
This thesis examines how cultural and political factors in the United States foster economic hardship and inequality, undermining efforts for a more egalitarian society. While some degree of inequality is expected in a capitalist system, the U.S. has experienced a dramatic rise in poverty and income disparity since the 1970s. Globalization and technology alone do not explain this, as other nations facing the same pressures have avoided similar increases. The paper will analyze how uniquely American traits like individualism and distrust of government, as well as the influence of special interests and wealthy donors in politics, impede reforms and preserve the status quo, causing many to miss out on the American Dream.
When change is not enough: the seven steps to revolutionEric Strayer
This document discusses seven criteria that historically indicate a society is primed for revolution according to sociological research: 1) A period of rising prosperity followed by a sharp economic decline; 2) Growing class divisions and conflict; 3) Intellectuals abandoning their allegiance to the status quo and joining with lower classes; 4) Incompetent and corrupt government; 5) Leaders failing to address major economic and social changes; 6) Ideological rigidities preventing reform; 7) Ongoing unrest and a sense that change is impossible through existing institutions. The document argues that conservative policies in the U.S. over several decades have fulfilled all seven of these criteria, suggesting the potential for revolution is high.
The document provides information on exams for a sociology course, including point breakdowns and essay guidelines. It discusses demographic trends in the US altering the population mix, including the aging population, racial/ethnic diversity from immigration, and urban growth. Sample student essays are included that discuss these trends, addressing causes and social consequences. The document also lists social institutions and group presentations scheduled, including expected topics.
The Work-Family ConnectionResearch shows that the worlds of work.docxchristalgrieg
The Work-Family Connection
Research shows that the worlds of work and family affect each other in significant ways. The quality and stability of family life are dependent to a large extent on the type of work available for family members. Work provides income that determines a family’s standard of living. Because of changing economic and social conditions, a single income is no longer sufficient for most families. Many husbands remain major providers, but increasingly wives are sharing this role and, increasingly, wives are taking over this role due to their husbands’ job loss. Additionally, growing numbers of families are headed by a single parent who must fulfill both the breadwinner and homemaker roles.
Work affects families in other ways as well. It can have spillover effects, either positive or negative, on family life. An example of positive spillover is the carryover of satisfaction and stimulation at work to a sense of satisfaction at home (Orbuch, 2011). Similarly, increases in marital satisfaction are related to increases in job satisfaction (Rogers, 2003). Negative spillover involves bringing home the problems and stresses experienced at work, making adequate participation in family life difficult (Voydanoff, 1987; Schulz et al, 2004). Family life can affect work in important ways as well. Family obligations can provide motivation for working hard, but problems at home, such as a child’s illness, can hinder job performance.
This chapter focuses on the interconnection between families and work, beginning with a quick view of people’s perceptions of the current economic climate followed by an examination of the changing composition of the labor force, notably the increasing participation of married women with small children and the impact of this change on marriage and family structures and functioning. We also examine today’s growing inequalities of wealth and resources as manifested in low income, poverty, unemployment, and underemployment, all of which have contributed to a sense of unease and economic uncertainty among many working families. Despite government reports of a growing economy and some new job creation, recent polling data suggest that the majority of Americans are concerned about current economic conditions.
ECONOMIC CONCERNS ARE INCREASING IN THE UNITED STATES
In April 2011, only 19 percent of respondents rated the economic conditions in this country as good; 80 percent rated them as poor. Thirty-nine percent of respondents thought that economic conditions were getting worse (CBS/New York Times, 2011b). Similar concerns were observed in a recent Gallup poll that found that 58 percent of Americans were worried that they will not be able to maintain their standard of living, the highest response to this question to date. Respondents were even more concerned about their future. Sixty-six percent of respondents were worried about not having enough money for retirement. This was almost equally true for respondents with i ...
Since the 1960s, the United States Government has de.docxjennifer822
Since the 1960s, the United States Government has defined poverty in absolute terms. This makes poverty more easily measurable. The "absolute poverty line" is the threshold below which families or individuals are considered to be lacking the resources to meet the basic needs for healthy living; having insufficient income to provide the food, shelter and clothing needed to preserve health.A large percentage of the governments poverty measurements depend on the price of food.
"Relative poverty" can be defined as having significantly less access to income and wealth than other members of society. Therefore, the relative poverty rate can directly be linked to income inequality.Means relative poverty can decline if rich people lose a lot of money.
The current poverty measure was established in the 1960s and is now widely acknowledged to be outdated. It was based on research indicating that families spent about one-third of their incomes on food — the official poverty level was set by multiplying food costs by three. Since then, the same figures have been updated annually for inflation but have otherwise remained unchanged.Yet food now comprises only one-seventh of an average family’s expenses, while the costs of housing, child care, health care, and transportation have grown disproportionately. Most analysts agree that today’s poverty thresholds are too low. And although there is no consensus about what constitutes a minimum but decent standard of living in the U.S., research consistently shows that, on average, families need an income of about twice the federal poverty level to meet their most basic needs.
Thirty-seven million Americans live below the official poverty line.One in eight Americans now lives in poverty.A family of four is considered poor if the family’s income is below $21,027.One third of all Americans will experience poverty within a 13-year period. In that period, one in 10 Americans are poor for most of the time, and one in 20 are poor for 10 or more years.
“One in eight Americans -- approximately 37 million people -- now live below the federal poverty line of $19,971 for a family of four. (A woefully inadequate measure that is 42 years old and fails to account for basic necessities.) That's 4.9 million more people than in 2000 and the poverty rate for children is the highest of all age groups. Nearly 60 million people live just above the poverty line. Using the British standard of measurement, approximately 30 percent of Americans --and 40 percent of American children -- are living in poverty.”
Eighteen percent of children are in poverty. 10.9 percent of working-age adults (between the ages of 16 and 64) are in poverty.9.7 percent of the elderly are in poverty. 13.8 percent of females and 11.1 percent of males were poor
The white non-Hispanic poverty rate is 8.2%. The poverty rate for African Americans is 24.5%. The poverty rate for Hispanics is 21.5%. The poverty rate for Asian Americans is 10.2%.
Federal m.
This document provides a recommendation for changing US economic policy to help reduce the growing disparity between wealth and poverty. It proposes implementing a flat tax rate for all income earners above the poverty level, as well as a 1% national sales tax on all non-food goods and services. This would simplify the tax code, encourage higher earnings by eliminating penalties for success, and distribute the tax burden more evenly across income levels and throughout business operations. The recommendation argues that this tax structure could help narrow the gap between the richest and poorest Americans by increasing incentives to work and earn more.
This document summarizes and expands on previous findings about increasing mortality and morbidity among white non-Hispanic Americans since the turn of the century. Key points:
- Mortality from drug overdoses, suicides, and alcohol-related liver disease continued to increase through 2015, especially among those with a high school education or less. Declines in heart disease mortality also slowed or stopped.
- Educational differences in mortality among whites are increasing - mortality rose for those without college degrees from 1998-2015, while falling for those with degrees.
- In contrast, mortality rates among blacks and Hispanics continued to fall. Mortality rates for whites without college degrees are now higher than rates were for blacks in 1999
This document provides an overview of American men in the early 2010s by examining realities, icons, and memes. It discusses the changing demographics of the US, with declining white population percentages and growing ethnic diversity. Economically, it notes the illusion of widespread prosperity fueled by debt, and outlines the current realities of uneven wealth distribution and declining prospects for many working-class men. It then examines prominent male icons from Hollywood and how they have reflected changing ideals of American manhood over time. Finally, it introduces the concept of "thought viruses" or memes that animate American cultural and political debates.
This document summarizes realities about men in the United States based on statistics and data. It notes that the US population continues to grow through births and immigration, making it more ethnically diverse. While men on average still earn more than women, the gap is closing as more women get college degrees and high-paying jobs. However, rising costs and debt have created an illusion of prosperity for many. Most Americans now make under $50,000 annually and cannot maintain spending levels without borrowing. Overall wealth remains concentrated among the top earners.
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How the great recession has changed life in america
1. How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America - Pew Social & Demographic... Page 1 of 6
How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America
A Balance Sheet at 30 Months
By Wendy Wang and Rich Morin, Pew Research Center
Complete Report
Of the 13 recessions that the American public has endured since the Great Depression of 1929-33, none has presented a more punishing
combination of length, breadth and depth than this one.
A new Pew Research survey finds that 30 months after it began, the Great Recession has led to
a downsizing of Americans’ expectations about their retirements and their children’s future; a new
frugality in their spending and borrowing habits; and a concern that it could take several years, at
a minimum, for their house values and family finances to recover.
The survey also finds that more than half of the adults in U.S. labor force (55%) have
experienced some work-related hardship — be it a spell of unemployment, a cut in pay, a
reduction in hours or an involuntary move to part-time work. In addition, the bursting of the pre-
recession housing and stock market bubbles has shrunk the wealth of the average American
household by an estimated 20%, the deepest such decline in the post-World War II era,
according to government data.
While nearly all Americans have been
hurt in one way or another, some
groups have suffered more than
others. Blacks and Hispanics have
borne a disproportionate share of
both the job losses and the housing
foreclosures. Young adults have
taken the biggest losses on the job
front. Middle-aged adults have gotten
the worst of the downturn in house
values, household finances and
retirement accounts. Men have lost
many more jobs than women. And
across most indicators, those with a
high school diploma or less education
have been hit harder than those with
a college degree or more.
Whether by choice or necessity, many
Americans have already significantly
scaled back their pre-recession
borrow-and-spend habits. According
to government data, household
spending has gone down, savings
rates have gone up, consumer credit
has remained stable and mortgage
debt has plunged during this
recession.
The survey finds that the public is starting to see some light at the end of the tunnel. More than six-in-ten survey respondents (62%) say they expect
their personal financial situation to improve in the coming year—the most optimistic reading on this question since before the recession began.
Likewise, about six-in-ten (61%) say they believe the damage the recession has inflicted on the U.S. economy will prove to be temporary rather than
permanent.
This report sets out to present a comprehensive balance sheet on the Great Recession by looking at economic outcomes, behavioral changes and
attitudinal trends among the full population as well as various subgroups. Our analysis is drawn from two sources—a comprehensive Pew Research
telephone survey of a representative, national sample of 2,967 adults conducted from May 11 to May 31, 2010 (see Appendix for details), and a
Pew Research analysis of government economic and demographic trend data.
One striking finding of the survey is that some of the demographic groups that have suffered the worst economic hits are also the ones most
optimistic about a recovery—both for themselves personally and for the U.S. economy as a whole.
Blacks and Hispanics are more upbeat than whites. The young are more optimistic than middle-aged and older Americans. And Democrats are
more upbeat than Republicans, even though Democrats have lower incomes and less wealth and have suffered more recession-related job losses.
These group differences are apparent not just in responses to specific survey questions, but also in a set of statistical models that examine the
independent impact of race, partisanship and age on the likelihood that a respondent will express optimism on six different attitudes about the
economy tested in the survey, controlling for a range of demographic variables and recession-related experiences.1 The analysis finds that blacks,
Democrats and, on most questions, younger adults are more likely than whites, Republicans and older adults to hold positive views about the
national economy and their personal finances, regardless of their income, education, gender or whether they have had difficulty paying their bills,
making mortgage or rent payments; getting or paying for medical care; or have had to cut spending during the recession.
One likely explanation for these seemingly counterintuitive patterns is that in an age of highly polarized politics, Democrats and Republicans differ
not only in their values, attitudes and policy positions, but, increasingly, in their basic perceptions of reality.
This is not the first Pew Research survey taken in the past year that shows that the election of Barack Obama (which came at the height of the
recession in November 2008) appears to have put his most enthusiastic supporters—especially blacks, Democrats and young adults—in a more
positive frame of mind than Obama’s detractors about many aspects of national life.2
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2. How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America - Pew Social & Demographic... Page 2 of 6
For example, since Obama
was elected Democrats have
become more optimistic than
Republicans about the state of
the national economy. For
most of the time that George
W. Bush was in office, the
reverse was true: Republicans
were more upbeat—often,
much more upbeat—than
Democrats.
An Historical Perspective
Modern-era
recessions in the
U.S. have generally
been less severe
than those of the
19th and early 20th
centuries. But this
one stands out for
two features that,
taken together,
validate its by-now-
familiar designation
as the worst
recession since the
Great Depression.
The Surge in Long
-term
Unemployment:
The typical
unemployed worker
today has been out
of work for nearly
six months (23.2
weeks). This is
almost double the
previous post-World
War II peak for this
measure—12.3
weeks—in 1982-83.
Long-term
unemployment of
this magnitude and
duration raises a vexing question: Beyond a “normal” cyclical downturn, might the U.S. economy be going through some long-term structural
changes that will lead to relatively high rates of unemployment for years to come?
The Meltdown in Household Wealth: This recession has eroded more household wealth than any other episode in the post-World War II era—not
surprising in that it was triggered by the bursting of bubbles in both the housing and stock markets, the two principal sources of household wealth.
According to the Panel Survey of Income Dynamics (PSID)3, median household wealth decreased by an estimated 19% from 2007 to 2009. On a
percentage basis, this loss of wealth was greater among middle-income households than among those in either the lower or upper income tiers.
Similarly, it took a much bigger percentage bite out of the (relatively modest) wealth of black and Hispanic households than of white households.
Two-and-a-half years after this recession began, it’s easier to take stock of its effects than to be certain of its duration. The nation’s gross domestic
product has been registering gains for nearly a year, leading some economists to assert that the recession is already over—and has been for some
time. But with the nation’s overall unemployment rate remaining stubbornly high—9.7% as of May 2010—the quasi-official arbiters of the nation’s
business cycles at the National Bureau of Economic Research4 (NBER) have yet to declare that it is over. To further complicate matters, this
doesn’t necessarily mean it isn’t over. Because of the way the NBER operates, there is often a lag time of a year or more between its declaration of
the end of a recession and the date that recession is retrospectively said to have ended. (For details, see Chapter 2).
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3. How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America - Pew Social & Demographic... Page 3 of 6
Here are highlights from the Pew Research Center survey:
The Recession: An Overview
It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over: The public shares the NBER’s caution about declaring the recession over. More
than half (54%) of the respondents to the Pew Research survey say the economy is still in a recession, 41%
say it’s beginning to come out of the recession and just 3% say the recession is over. Whites (57%) are more
inclined than blacks (45%) or Hispanics (43%) to say the recession is ongoing. Republicans (63%) are more
inclined than Democrats (43%) to say the same.
Half Say Their Finances Are in Worse Shape: About half of Americans (48%) say their household’s current
financial situation is worse now than before the recession. About one-in-five (21%) say they are in better
shape. The rest say there has been no change. Grouped by income, those at the lower end of the scale are
most likely to say they are in worse shape. Grouped by age, those in late middle age (50 to 64) are the most
likely to say they are in worse shape.
Many Foresee a Long Road to Recovery: Among those who
say their family finances have lost ground during the recession,
63% predict it will take at least three years to recover. Blacks are
more optimistic than whites that their recovery time period will be
two years or less (55% versus 29%). Among college graduates
who lost ground, fully 30% believe it will take six or more years to
recover. Among those who did not attend college and lost
ground, just 18% see a recovery period of six or more years.
A
Growing
Lower
Class?
Asked to
place
themselves into one of five socioeconomic classes (upper, upper
-middle, middle, lower-middle and lower), a slightly higher share of Americans put themselves in the lower two groups now than before the
recession began—29% now vs. 25% in March 2008. Half say they are middle class (down from 53% in 2008), while 20% place themselves in the
upper two classes (virtually unchanged from 2008). Blacks, as a group, are an exception to this overall pattern. The share of blacks who now
identify with the upper class has gone up during this recession, to 20% now from 15% two years ago.
Not Everyone Got Whacked: Even in these bad times, some people have made out OK. As noted above, about two-in-ten (21%) adults say their
household finances are in better shape now than before the recession began. Among all currently employed workers, 20% say they were promoted
or found a better job during the recession. And about four-in-ten say they have gotten at least one raise during the past 30 months (a proportion that
is likely much lower than it would have been if the economy had been more robust).
The New Frugality
Making Ends Meet: Americans have changed their lifestyles in many different ways to make ends meet during this recession. More than seven-in-
ten (71%) say they have bought less expensive brands. Nearly six-in-ten (57%) say they have cut back or canceled vacation plans. About half
(49%) say they have loaned money to someone, and 24% report having borrowed money from someone. Three-in-ten say they have cut back on
alcohol or cigarettes. Nearly one-in-ten (9%) say they have moved back in with their parents (among adults ages 18 to 29, this figure rises to 24%).
Overall, higher-income adults report making fewer of all these lifestyle adjustments than do lower-income adults. Likewise, adults ages 65 and older
report making fewer of them than do younger and middle-aged adults.
Neither a Spender Nor a Borrower Be: More than six-in-ten (62%) Americans say that since the recession began, they’ve cut back on household
spending. Half say they have reduced the amount they owe on mortgages, credit cards, car loans and other borrowing. Of those who have savings
or retirement accounts, more than four-in-ten (42%) say they’ve adopted a more conservative approach to saving and investing, compared with just
8% who say they’ve taken a more aggressive approach. These new habits of thrift and caution could well outlive this recession. Asked to predict
their financial behaviors once the economy recovers, 48% say they plan to save more, 31% say they plan to spend less and 30% say they plan to
borrow less. Only small percentages say the reverse—that they plan to save less and borrow and spend more.
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4. How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America - Pew Social & Demographic... Page 4 of 6
Retirement Worries
Retirement Confidence Down: Even though the stock market has rallied by more than 50%
from its recession-era bottom in March 2009, Americans have continued to lose confidence in
their ability to afford retirement. Some 32% of adults now say they are “not too” or “not at all”
confident they will have sufficient income and assets for retirement, up from 25% who said the
same in February 2009. This uncertainty is greater among younger and middle-aged adults
than among older adults. It is also greater among adults with low incomes.
Retirement Delayed: Among adults
ages 62 and older who are still working,
35% say they’ve already delayed
retirement because of the recession.
Among adults ages 50 to 61 who are
currently employed, six-in-ten say they
may have to delay retirement because of
the recession.
Raiding the Cookie Jar: Four-in-ten
adults (41%) who have a checking,
savings or retirement account say that
during the recession they have had to
withdraw money from their savings
account, 401(k) account or some other retirement account to pay their bills. Younger and middle-aged adults report having done this at higher rates
than those ages 65 and older. Lower-income adults have done it at higher rates than have upper-income adults.
Short-term Optimism; Long-Term Uncertainty
Next Year Will Be Better: More than six-in-ten (62%) adults say they expect their financial situation to improve in the coming year, compared with
just 19% who say they expect it to get worse. That is the most upbeat reading on this measure since September 2007, just before the recession
began. Among the most optimistic demographic groups are blacks (81% expect their finances to improve in the coming year), Hispanics (74%) and
18- to 29-year-olds (85%).
But Will Our Children Do Better? During the past decade, Americans have grown increasingly skeptical about the standard of living of future
generations—and this skepticism has deepened during this recession. Today fewer than half (45%) of adults believe that when their children
become the age they are now, their children will enjoy a better standard of living than they have now. Even more striking, 26% now say their
children’s standard of living will be lower. This is a “positive/negative” gap of just 19 percentage points on a question that tests the public’s faith in a
core tenet of the American dream—the idea that children grow up to live better than their parents. At the start of the recession in early 2008, this
gap was 35 percentage points. In 2002, it was 51 percentage points. Overall, blacks, Hispanics and young adults are more upbeat about the idea of
generational progress than are whites and older adults.
Public Says Mix of Economic News Is Unchanged: About two-thirds of adults (65%) say that these days they are hearing a mix of good and bad
news about the economy, while 30% say they are hearing mostly bad news and just 4% say they are hearing mostly good news. These shares
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5. How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America - Pew Social & Demographic... Page 5 of 6
have barely budged in the
past year. However, back in
December 2008, when the
recession was about a year
old, fully 80% of adults said
they were hearing mostly
bad news about the
economy.
Recession Impact:
Permanent or Temporary?
Most Americans (70%)
believe that the recession
has inflicted major changes
on the U.S. economy, but
most (61%) say that these
changes will prove to be
temporary. Older adults are
more downbeat than younger
adults (21% of those ages 50
and older see major,
permanent changes,
compared with just 13% of
those ages 18-24); college graduates are more pessimistic than whose with a high school
diploma or less education (22% of the former see major, permanent change, compared with
14% of the latter); and Republicans are more pessimistic than Democrats (22% vs. 12%).
When asked a similar battery of questions about the impact of the recession on the way they
live their lives, a smaller share of respondents—just 8%—say they believe the changes will
prove to be both major and permanent. An additional 12% say the changes will be minor and
permanent.
Still the Land of Prosperity? By a two-to-one margin, 63% to 31%, Americans agree with the
statement that “although there may be bad times every now and then, America will always
continue to be prosperous and make economic progress.” Blacks, Hispanics, Democrats and
young adults register the most optimistic views on this question. Also, those who self-identify
with the middle class are more optimistic than those who classify themselves as upper or lower
class.
The Labor Force
The Unemployment Blues: High as they are, measures such as the unemployment rate (9.7% in May 2010) and the median length of
unemployment (23.2 weeks) still don’t fully convey the scope of the employment crisis that has unfolded during this recession. A broader measure
from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics that also includes involuntary part-timers and other marginal workers puts the combined unemployment and
underemployment rate at 16.6%. And the Pew Research survey finds that among all adults in the labor force, fully 32% say that they are either now
unemployed or that they had been unemployed for some period of time since the recession began.
The Long-term Blues: Of all currently-unemployed adults, 46% have been out of work for six months or more, by far the highest share measured
by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in the post-World War II era. Short-term spells of unemployment typically do not lead to significant breaks in
career paths or major financial losses—but long-term spells often do.
The Payday Blues: The unemployed are not the only ones hit by this recession. More than four-in-ten (42%) currently employed workers say that
during the recession they have experienced at least one of the following: had their hours reduced (28%); had their pay cut (23%); had to take
unpaid leave (12%) or saw their full-time jobs shrink to part time (11%). Workers across all demographic groups were affected, but these blows
landed most heavily on minorities and workers with only a high school diploma or less education.
Career Impact: About a quarter (24%) of all adults—and 43% of all currently unemployed adults—say the recession will have a big impact on their
ability to achieve their long-term career goals. Also, workers who lost a job during this recession but have since found a new one (26% of currently
employed adults) are less likely than other workers to say they are satisfied with their job and more likely to say they are overqualified.
http://pewsocialtrends.org/pubs/759/how-the-great-recession-has-changed-life-in-ame... 04/07/2010
6. How the Great Recession Has Changed Life in America - Pew Social & Demographic... Page 6 of 6
The Recession Hits the Home
The Housing Bubble Bursts: About half of all homeowners (48%) say the value of their house has
declined during the recession (26% say “‘a lot,” and 22% say “a little”). A third say their homes have held
their value during the recession, and one-in-eight say their homes have increased in value. Homeowners
most likely to report their home lost value include those who are middle-aged, upper income and live in
the West. Also, Republicans (52%) are more likely than Democrats (42%) to say their house has lost
value.
“Underwater”: More than two-in-ten (21%) of all homeowners say they currently owe more on their
mortgage or other home loans than they could sell their house for in today’s market. In real estate
vernacular, they are “underwater.” Hispanic and black homeowners are more likely than whites to be in
this circumstance; lower-income homeowners are more likely than upper-income homeowners to face
this problem, and middle-aged homeowners more likely than either younger or older homeowners to be in
this situation.
Not Coming Back Anytime Soon: Among those who say
their houses have lost value during this recession, the
overwhelming majority believe it will take at least three years
for values to return to pre-recession levels. This includes 47%
who say they expect it will take three to five years and 39%
who say it will take six years or longer. Just 10% say they
expect a recovery in two or less years. Despite this, eight-in-
ten Americans agree that a house is the best long-term
investment the average person can make. (However, the
share who “strongly agree” with this statement is just 39%
now, down by 10 percentage points from the share who said
the same in a 1991 survey.)
1 In addition to race, party identification and age, the logistic
regression models include gender, education, income and
whether the respondent had experienced recession-related
problems to predict the respondents’ views on the current
state of the economy, their personal financial situation and
how they think their family will fare financially in the coming
year.
2 For similar findings of this nature from another Pew
Research Center survey, see “Blacks Upbeat about Black
Progress, Prospects, ” January 12, 2010
(http://pewsocialtrends.org/pubs/749/blacks-upbeat-about-
black-progress-obama-election ).
3 The PSID, started in 1968, is a longitudinal study of U.S. families, that is, it follows the same families and individual members of those families
over time. It features an oversample of low-income families. The original sample size was about 4,800 families, and it has grown since to about
8,000 families today. A refresher sample of immigrant families was added in 1997 to keep the study representative of the U.S. population. The study
is conducted at the Survey Research Center, Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan.
4 The NBER is a private, not-for-profit economic research organization based in Cambridge, Mass. It counts more than 1,000 professors of
economics among its research associates. Since forming its Business Cycle Dating Committee in 1978, it has been the quasi-official arbiter of the
timing of expansions and recessions in the U.S. economy.
http://pewsocialtrends.org/pubs/759/how-the-great-recession-has-changed-life-in-ame... 04/07/2010