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Rating: 
Summary: Informative and concise
Review: I read this book (in conjunction with other texts) for a graduate section of a Social Policies class, and was impressed with the ease both authors transformed the abstract and dry into something exciting and inspiring. No, social policy is not the most glamorous field for college students to enter, and unarguably the American system's shrinkage is going to pose severe problems in the next couple of years, but emotional and moral rewards of doing what is right make this venture worth it. Alternately, the authors balance this view with pragmatic political approaches that equip the reader with introductory strategies to hold off or even staunch further erosion of American social policy. The book by itself is enjoyable, but advanced classes should use the American Welfare State as a supplementary text for historical background.
Rating:
Summary: Great Introduction!
Review: I took an undergraduate social policy course last semester and we used the Karger/Stoesz text. They do an excellent job at presenting such a broad subject matter in this introductory book. In addition, the authors make an earnest effort to accurately discuss both sides (conservative and liberal) of the social issues covered. As a student I eagerly read the text each week, having found it both informative and engaging. Most of the chapters were enlightening, especially the ones that dealt with problems and issues that receive poor media coverage and therefore are not popular topics in today's political elections. For example, Chapter 5, Poverty in America, shined light on this oft-overlooked problem. I highly recommend "American Social Welfare Policy: A Pluralist Perspective" to anyone looking for a great book that delivers a solid, high-level introduction to America's social policies.
Rating:
Summary: Great Introduction!
Review: I took an undergraduate social policy course last semester and we used the Karger/Stoesz text. They do an excellent job at presenting such a broad subject matter in this introductory book. In addition, the authors make an earnest effort to accurately discuss both sides (conservative and liberal) of the social issues covered. As a student I eagerly read the text each week, having found it both informative and engaging. Most of the chapters were enlightening, especially the ones that dealt with problems and issues that receive poor media coverage and therefore are not popular topics in today's political elections. For example, Chapter 5, Poverty in America, shined light on this oft-overlooked problem. I highly recommend "American Social Welfare Policy: A Pluralist Perspective" to anyone looking for a great book that delivers a solid, high-level introduction to America's social policies.
Rating:
Summary: Clear language, comprehensive
Review: I've been reading Karger and Stoesz for years. This is a good, relevant edition to understanding social welfare policy. However, the 4th edition leaves out the historical perspectives; readers will want to refer to earlier editions or supplemental sources for historical content.
Rating:
Summary: Great Book, But Don't Forget To Buy Internet Update!
Review: This is truly a great book, and you'll want to keep it for a reference even after your classes. Don't forget to buy the supplemental Internet Update ((...) ISBN 0801332389). It's a great resource and really helps when you need to do research or write a term paper!
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