Question

"The exodus of middle- and working-class families from many ghetto neighborhoods removes an important 'social buffer'" was said by __________.(LO7) a) Nicholas Lemann b) Charles Murray c) Barbara Ehrenreich d) William Julius Wilson

Short answer

"The exodus of middle- and working-class families from many ghetto neighborhoods removes an important 'social buffer'" was said by \(d\) William Julius Wilson.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the context of the quote

Read and understand the quote: "The exodus of middle- and working-class families from many ghetto neighborhoods removes an important 'social buffer." This statement indicates that when middle- and working-class families move away from underprivileged neighborhoods, they are taking away an essential layer of social support that could have helped in managing the cycle of poverty.

Research the individuals

Research the works and beliefs of the following individuals: a) Nicholas Lemann b) Charles Murray c) Barbara Ehrenreich d) William Julius Wilson

Identify the correct person

After researching each person's writings and statements, it becomes clear that the quote is by William Julius Wilson, whose work revolves around the social implications of the loss of middle- and working-class families from underprivileged neighborhoods.

Confirm the answer

Confirm that William Julius Wilson is the correct answer by checking reliable resources or references to the quote. Once you have confirmed the source, finalize your answer.

Present the answer

"The exodus of middle- and working-class families from many ghetto neighborhoods removes an important 'social buffer'" was said by William Julius Wilson (d).

Key concepts

Social Buffer

The concept of a "social buffer" refers to a supportive social network within a community that helps to mitigate the impacts of economic hardship and social challenges. When middle- and working-class families reside in a neighborhood, they often contribute stability in several ways:

• They provide role models within the community, showing pathways to stable jobs and constructive social behaviors.
• They contribute to a more diverse economic base, which can attract businesses and services that benefit everyone.
• They help create a sense of community where people look out for one another, increasing social cohesion.

When these families leave ghetto neighborhoods, which are often economically disadvantaged areas, this "social buffer" disappears, removing these critical supports.

Middle-Class Families

Middle-class families play a crucial role in fostering community stability and economic growth. They usually have steady employment, which allows them to invest in education, housing, and local businesses. Their presence in neighborhoods can have several positive effects:

• They generally support local schools by participating in school events and funding initiatives, thus improving educational outcomes.
• They can influence the maintenance of local infrastructure like parks, libraries, and streets.
• Their consumption patterns help sustain local economies, prompting the opening of stores, cafes, and other amenities.

Overall, middle-class families provide economic vibrancy and social stability, creating a balanced environment that is conducive to growth for all members of the community.

Ghetto Neighborhoods

Ghetto neighborhoods are areas that are economically disadvantaged and often characterized by high poverty rates and limited access to quality services and opportunities. Several factors contribute to the persistence of ghetto neighborhoods:

• Disinvestment: There's a lack of investment in infrastructure and public services, which exacerbates economic decline.
• Segregation: Often, these neighborhoods have historical roots in racial segregation, which still influences modern policies and social dynamics.
• Poor housing: Many homes are in disrepair, discouraging new investment and creating unsanitary living conditions.

The departure of middle- and working-class families from these areas often intensifies these issues, removing essential social structures that could help uplift the community.

Poverty Cycle

The poverty cycle is a self-perpetuating pattern where poverty leads to conditions that prevent individuals from escaping it, thereby continuing the cycle for subsequent generations. Key components of the poverty cycle include:

• Lack of education: Without access to quality education, individuals struggle to attain higher-paying jobs.
• Poor health: Economic hardship often correlates with inadequate healthcare, which can limit productivity and increase financial strain.
• Limited economic opportunities: With few local jobs or resources, communities find it hard to break the cycle of dependency.

Middle- and working-class families can disrupt this cycle by providing resources and opportunities that pave the way out of poverty. When they leave, it can severely impact a community's ability to overcome this enduring cycle.