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John Robertson
The course probes the formation of social policy in the United States from its very first cultural and religious roots. Starting with the transition from hunter-gatherer groups to agrarian villages, the course will examine the passage of the Poor Laws that shaped social policy through the colonial period until the beginnings of the 20th century, when the challenge of making the industrial city livable gave rise to the development of the welfare state. As part of this transformation, the provider of social welfare shifted from the local community to the state to the federal government. The course ends with an exploration of the debate regarding the role of government in the late 20th century: should it foster entitlements or self-sufficiency? This course addresses issues of power, oppression, and white supremacy.
Read more
The course probes the formation of social policy in the United States from its very first cultural and religious roots. Starting with the transition from hunter-gatherer groups to agrarian villages, the course will examine the passage of the Poor Laws that shaped social policy through the colonial period until the beginnings of the 20th century, when the challenge of making the industrial city livable gave rise to the development of the welfare state. As part of this transformation, the provider of social welfare shifted from the local community to the state to the federal government. The course ends with an exploration of the debate regarding the role of government in the late 20th century: should it foster entitlements or self-sufficiency? This course addresses issues of power, oppression, and white supremacy.
Read more
The course probes the formation of social policy in the United States from its very first cultural and religious roots. Starting with the transition from hunter-gatherer groups to agrarian villages, the course will examine the passage of the Poor Laws that shaped social policy through the colonial period until the beginnings of the 20th century, when the challenge of making the industrial city livable gave rise to the development of the welfare state. As part of this transformation, the provider of social welfare shifted from the local community to the state to the federal government. The course ends with an exploration of the debate regarding the role of government in the late 20th century: should it foster entitlements or self-sufficiency? This course addresses issues of power, oppression, and white supremacy.
The course is part of a sequence in social policy that has an HONORS TRACK. This track will prepare the learner for masters-level work in policy, which involves reading the literature, writing concise summaries and probing critiques. Over the sequence the learner will develop a policy analysis that will create a foundation for professional policy analyst assignments.
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What's inside
Syllabus
Early Roots of Social Policy
In this module, you'll learn about the roots of social policy. Learners will hear about the Poor Laws and how the poor law shaped American social policy as well as the history of early activists and influencers.
Read more
Syllabus
Early Roots of Social Policy
In this module, you'll learn about the roots of social policy. Learners will hear about the Poor Laws and how the poor law shaped American social policy as well as the history of early activists and influencers.
Read more
Roots of US Social Policy
This module describes the development of social policy in the modern industrial city: public health, worker safety, mother's pensions and roots of the movement for racial equality.
The beginnings of the welfare state
This module explores the shift to a federal role in social policy and the development of welfare state institutions, including public works and employment, pensions, public housing and supports for families
Safety nets versus entitlement
As the US Welfare State developed, health care and social services expanded. Tensions developed over the role of safety net programs for the poor and the social policy debate centered on providing entitlements versus developing self-sufficiency.
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Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Explores American social policy from its origins to the 20th century, examining how it shaped the nation's response to poverty, inequality, and social change
Focuses on the historical development of the welfare state in the United States
Analyzes the ongoing debate over the role of government in providing social welfare
Emphasizes the role of power, oppression, and white supremacy in shaping social policy
Includes an HONORS TRACK that prepares students for masters-level work in policy
Taught by John Robertson, an experienced instructor in social policy
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Reviews summary
Exceptional explanation of us social services
According to students, US Social Services provides great lectures and interesting readings. They say that the instructor provides wonderful explanations of complex issues and the course is highly recommended.
Many students highly recommend this course.
"ESTOY APRENDIENDO MUCHO , Y ES UNA FORMACIÓN EXCEPCIONAL."
The instructor provides excellent explanations of complex issues.
"The instructor can very well explain and discuss complex issues that allows me as a non-American citizen to follow the contents easily."
"It is an excellent course that helps me better understand general social welfare in the United States, which is very unique compared to that in other Western countries."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in US Social Services: Where did they come from? with these
activities:
Volunteer at a social service organization
Show steps
Volunteering at a social service organization will provide firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities in the field of social policy.
Browse courses on
Community Engagement
Show steps
-
Identify a local organization that aligns with your interests.
-
Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
-
Complete necessary training and background checks.
Review the history of the Poor Laws
Show steps
Reviewing the history of the Poor Laws will provide a strong foundation for understanding the origins of social policy in the United States.
Show steps
-
Read about the Poor Laws in England and their impact on early American social policy.
-
Create a timeline of the major milestones in the development of the Poor Laws.
Review the concepts of power, oppression, and white supremacy in the context of social policy
Show steps
Reviewing the concepts of power, oppression, and white supremacy will provide a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that have shaped social policy in the United States.
Browse courses on
Power
Show steps
-
Discuss and analyze the ways in which these concepts have influenced the development and implementation of social policies.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Compile a resource list on social policy in the United States
Show steps
Compiling a resource list on social policy in the United States will reinforce key concepts and provide a valuable reference for further study.
Browse courses on
Social Policy
Show steps
-
Gather resources from various sources, such as books, articles, and websites.
-
Organize the resources into a coherent and accessible format.
Learn about the role of public health in the development of the welfare state
Show steps
Understanding the role of public health in the development of the welfare state will provide insights into the origins and evolution of social policy in the United States.
Browse courses on
Public Health
Show steps
-
Identify key public health initiatives that influenced the development of the welfare state.
-
Research the impact of these initiatives on the lives of Americans.
Analyze primary sources related to the history of social policy
Show steps
Analyzing primary sources related to the history of social policy will develop critical thinking skills and deepen students' understanding of the development of social policy in the United States.
Browse courses on
Primary Sources
Show steps
-
Locate and select primary sources relevant to the history of social policy.
-
Read and analyze the sources, identifying key themes and perspectives.
-
Interpret the sources and draw conclusions about the development of social policy.
Participate in a social policy debate or mock trial
Show steps
Participating in a social policy debate or mock trial will provide practical experience in applying knowledge and developing critical thinking skills in a competitive environment.
Browse courses on
Social Policy
Show steps
-
Research and develop a strong argument on a specific social policy issue.
-
Present arguments and engage in respectful debate or participate in a mock trial.
Contribute to an open-source project on social policy research
Show steps
Contributing to an open-source project on social policy research will provide practical experience in conducting research and collaborating with others in the field.
Browse courses on
Social Policy
Show steps
-
Identify an open-source project that aligns with your interests and skills.
-
Read the project documentation and contribute in a meaningful way.
-
Engage with other contributors and share your knowledge and expertise.
Volunteer at a social service organization
Show steps
Volunteering at a social service organization will provide firsthand experience with the challenges and opportunities in the field of social policy.
Browse courses on
Community Engagement
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a local organization that aligns with your interests.
- Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
- Complete necessary training and background checks.
Review the history of the Poor Laws
Show steps
Reviewing the history of the Poor Laws will provide a strong foundation for understanding the origins of social policy in the United States.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read about the Poor Laws in England and their impact on early American social policy.
- Create a timeline of the major milestones in the development of the Poor Laws.
Review the concepts of power, oppression, and white supremacy in the context of social policy
Show steps
Reviewing the concepts of power, oppression, and white supremacy will provide a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that have shaped social policy in the United States.
Browse courses on
Power
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Discuss and analyze the ways in which these concepts have influenced the development and implementation of social policies.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Compile a resource list on social policy in the United States
Show steps
Compiling a resource list on social policy in the United States will reinforce key concepts and provide a valuable reference for further study.
Browse courses on
Social Policy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather resources from various sources, such as books, articles, and websites.
- Organize the resources into a coherent and accessible format.
Learn about the role of public health in the development of the welfare state
Show steps
Understanding the role of public health in the development of the welfare state will provide insights into the origins and evolution of social policy in the United States.
Browse courses on
Public Health
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify key public health initiatives that influenced the development of the welfare state.
- Research the impact of these initiatives on the lives of Americans.
Analyze primary sources related to the history of social policy
Show steps
Analyzing primary sources related to the history of social policy will develop critical thinking skills and deepen students' understanding of the development of social policy in the United States.
Browse courses on
Primary Sources
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Locate and select primary sources relevant to the history of social policy.
- Read and analyze the sources, identifying key themes and perspectives.
- Interpret the sources and draw conclusions about the development of social policy.
Participate in a social policy debate or mock trial
Show steps
Participating in a social policy debate or mock trial will provide practical experience in applying knowledge and developing critical thinking skills in a competitive environment.
Browse courses on
Social Policy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and develop a strong argument on a specific social policy issue.
- Present arguments and engage in respectful debate or participate in a mock trial.
Contribute to an open-source project on social policy research
Show steps
Contributing to an open-source project on social policy research will provide practical experience in conducting research and collaborating with others in the field.
Browse courses on
Social Policy
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify an open-source project that aligns with your interests and skills.
- Read the project documentation and contribute in a meaningful way.
- Engage with other contributors and share your knowledge and expertise.
Career center
Learners who complete US Social Services: Where did they come from? will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Social Worker
Social Worker
Social Workers are responsible for helping people improve their lives and overcome challenges. They work with individuals, families, groups, and communities to address a wide range of issues, including mental health, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' would be helpful for Social Workers because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Social Workers understand the context of their work and the challenges faced by the people they serve.
Sociologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and social behavior. They research the origins, development, and structure of social institutions, such as the family, the economy, and the government. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' would be helpful for Sociologists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Sociologists understand the social factors that influence social policies and the impact of these policies on society.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policies to make recommendations for improvements. They work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and businesses to develop and evaluate policies that address a wide range of issues, including education, healthcare, and environmental protection. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' would be helpful for Public Policy Analysts because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Public Policy Analysts understand the context of their work and the challenges involved in developing and implementing effective public policies.
Historian
Historian
Historians research and write about the past. They use primary and secondary sources to reconstruct past events and to analyze the causes and consequences of historical developments. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' would be helpful for Historians because it provides a foundation in the history of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Historians understand the development of social policies over time and the factors that have influenced their evolution.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They use economic models to analyze the behavior of individuals, businesses, and governments. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' would be helpful for Economists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Economists understand the economic impact of social policies and the challenges involved in designing effective policies.
Political Scientist
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study the theory and practice of politics. They research the origins, development, and operation of political systems. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' would be helpful for Political Scientists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Political Scientists understand the political factors that influence social policies and the impact of these policies on the political system.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. They research the law, prepare legal documents, and argue cases in court. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Lawyers because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Lawyers understand the legal framework for social policies and the challenges involved in advocating for social justice.
Journalist
Journalist
Journalists research and report on current events. They write articles, produce news broadcasts, and create documentaries for a variety of media outlets. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Journalists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Journalists understand the context of social issues and the challenges involved in reporting on social policies.
Educator
Educator
Educators teach students at all levels, from preschool through college. They develop lesson plans, deliver instruction, and assess student learning. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Educators because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Educators understand the social context of their students and the challenges involved in teaching about social issues.
Nonprofit Administrator
Nonprofit Administrator
Nonprofit Administrators manage the operations of nonprofit organizations. They develop budgets, oversee staff, and raise funds. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Nonprofit Administrators because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Nonprofit Administrators understand the context of their work and the challenges involved in managing nonprofit organizations.
Social Activist
Social Activist
Social Activists work to promote social change. They organize protests, lobby elected officials, and raise awareness of social issues. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Social Activists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Social Activists understand the context of their work and the challenges involved in advocating for social change.
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisor
Policy Advisors provide advice to policymakers on a variety of issues. They research and analyze policy options, and make recommendations to policymakers. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Policy Advisors because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Policy Advisors understand the context of their work and the challenges involved in developing and implementing effective public policies.
Urban Planner
Urban Planner
Urban Planners develop plans for the development and use of land in urban areas. They work with local governments, businesses, and community groups to create plans that meet the needs of the community. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Urban Planners because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Urban Planners understand the social factors that influence urban development and the challenges involved in creating sustainable and equitable communities.
Gerontologist
Gerontologist
Gerontologists study the social, psychological, and biological aspects of aging. They work with older adults to promote their health and well-being. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Gerontologists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Gerontologists understand the social factors that influence the lives of older adults and the challenges involved in developing and implementing effective policies to support them.
Social Epidemiologist
Social Epidemiologist
Social Epidemiologists study the relationship between social factors and health. They research the causes of disease and illness, and develop and implement interventions to promote health and well-being. The course 'US Social Services: Where did they come from?' may be helpful for Social Epidemiologists because it provides a foundation in the history and development of social policy in the United States. This knowledge can help Social Epidemiologists understand the social factors that influence health and the challenges involved in developing and implementing effective public health policies.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/l9j90a/us
Reading list
We've selected 17 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
US Social Services: Where did they come from?.
This classic work of American literature offers a powerful and personal account of the experiences of racism and segregation in the United States.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning work of American literature explores the complexities of race, gender, and class in the United States.
This classic work of American literature offers a powerful and surreal account of the experiences of racism and invisibility in the United States.
This powerful book examines the ways in which mass incarceration has become a new form of racial segregation in the United States.
Save
This Pulitzer Prize-winning work provides a firsthand account of the devastating impact of eviction on families and communities.
Save
This National Book Award-winning work explores the history and legacy of caste in the United States, and its impact on our society today.
Save
This groundbreaking work documents the history of government-sanctioned segregation in the United States.
This influential work analyzes the political factors that have shaped social welfare policies in the United States.
This groundbreaking work of poetry explores the everyday experiences of racism and discrimination in the United States.
Save
This timely work explores the costs of racism to both individuals and society as a whole, and offers solutions for building a more just and equitable future.
This authoritative work offers a comprehensive overview of social welfare policy in the United States from the colonial period to the present.
Save
This classic work provides a comprehensive overview of the development of the welfare state in England, from its origins in the Poor Laws to the expansion of social welfare programs in the 20th century.
This seminal work by Karl Polanyi examines the origins of the welfare state in the context of the broader social and economic transformations of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Save
This comprehensive textbook offers a detailed account of the history of social welfare in the United States.
This classic work provides a comparative perspective on the development of social welfare policies in the United States and England.
This comprehensive history of social welfare in the United States provides a detailed account of the development of social policy from the colonial era to the present day.
This influential work by Theda Skocpol examines the political factors that shaped the development of the American welfare state.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/l9j90a/us
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Effort
Four weeks, four hours per week -- HONORS COURSE: Four weeks, eight hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Columbia University
Instructor
John Robertson
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
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Português
Deutsch
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中文
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This course belongs to a
collection
called
Social Policy for Social Services & Health Practitioners . It's comprised of five courses:
- Social Services for Families, Seniors and Those with Disabilities
- Poverty & Population: How Demographics Shape Policy
- US Social Services: Where did they come from? (viewing)
- Health, Housing, and Educational Services
- US Social Services Compared
Good to know
Explores American social policy from its origins to the 20th century, examining how it shaped the nation's response to poverty, inequality, and social change
Focuses on the historical development of the welfare state in the United States
Analyzes the ongoing debate over the role of government in providing social welfare
Emphasizes the role of power, oppression, and white supremacy in shaping social policy
Includes an HONORS TRACK that prepares students for masters-level work in policy
Taught by John Robertson, an experienced instructor in social policy
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