Describes the background, design, and findings of several large-scale, government sponsored income maintenance experiments. Suggests that whether or not the findings indicate that a guaranteed income program could ameliorate poverty, its implementation would be unlikely in view of systemic obstacles. (Author/GC)

The basis for the New Norwegian Culture policy (NCC) is discussed in terms of the political attempt to extend the fundamental values of equality and social security into art and cultural life. The NCC is a result of a series of reports presented in the early 1970s which reflected a desire to see a broader welfare policy in Norway. The old form of…

Changes in the Australian taxation system are discussed in reference to two central issues: (1) achieving horizontal and vertical equity within the tax-transfer system; and (2) interrelating taxation and social security systems. Horizontal equity embodies the principle that those in similar economic circumstances should pay the same levels of…

Society's preference for dependency reduction over poverty reduction in dealing with the lower classes stands in the way of greater anti-poverty impact of social policy. Discusses four approaches to poverty policy, their effectiveness, and the poverty assumptions they are based on. Examines why a workfare strategy could be effective. (PS)

Results of a review of problems associated with divorce indicate that not only are very large numbers of children involved, but divorce seems to be associated with serious effects for children and adults. A very substantial number of children of divorced parents live in poverty and nearly all experience substantial reductions in family income. One…

While the principles of progressive taxation and the welfare state have come to be almost universally accepted, it would be a serious error to infer that American policy has ever embraced the idea of income redistribution. (Author)

Being a professor today is not as attractive as it used to be because of the mediocre pay, the competition, and pressures. Attractions still associated with the professoriate are freedom of expression coupled with a degree of financial security. (JMF)

Labor supports full employment as a goal of national policy because workers' security is connected to the general health of the economy and the society. To lay the groundwork for achieving that goal, the following are discussed: (1) causes of unemployment; and (2) the mechanism for achieving full employment. (PS)

A national full employment policy will benefit Blacks only if it guarantees that the average income of Black families will improve in relation to the average income of White families. An expanding economy, increased enrollment by Blacks in the professions, and continued affirmative action will also improve Black upward mobility. (Author/MC)

The concept of full employment must relate government policy to the following: (1) improved quality of life; (2) private-public relations; and (3) the data needed for accountable decision making. Seven elements are suggested which will lay the groundwork for change. Historical government action on full employment is reviewed. (PS)

This paper briefly explores current assumptions about the structure and functions of the modern American family and indicates new social, economic and psychological forces which are influencing parents. Also suggested are areas of concern related to the provision of family support services. (RH)

Part 2 of this Australian newsletter from the National Clearinghouse on the Transition from School to Work contains 11 review papers offering perspectives from various authors on a youth policy. The first two papers, "Youth Policies" by Shears and Matthews and "Putting Youth into Youth Policy" by Clohesy, provide an overview of…