Assets and the Poor: A New U.S. Welfare Policy

Author: (USA) Robert H. Shiller
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: "Assets and the Poor" primarily addresses the "welfare state" policies in the United States and other "developed" countries. These policies are mainly based on income support for poor families. The book suggests that social policies should also prioritize the accumulation of family assets, as only in this way can families and communities sustainably participate in social and economic development. Developed and developing countries should commit to formulating systematic and inclusive asset-building policies. These policies should not only include the entire population but also provide greater support for poor families. In this regard, both developed and developing countries still have a long way to go. China has a population of 1.3 billion, accounting for one-fifth of the global population. Any small change in policy could have a significant impact on society, as such policy changes would affect many people. I hope this book can spark a discussion about the role of assets in the development of Chinese families and communities, and ultimately promote social policies that help poor families accumulate assets.