Discusses problems that social scientists face when evaluating social programs, including cost, methodological concerns, and the development and application of new analytical techniques. (GC)

The new pressures on aging policy are certain to bring with them inequitable and unintended consequences. The very old have not shared fully in the policy gains made by the older population generally, yet they will possibly suffer most from whatever "aging backlash" develops in the future. (Author/AM)

Examines the development of Federal job training programs, including the Job Corps, the Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP), and the Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA). Argues that these programs have actually harmed participants and wasted millions of tax dollars. (FMW)

Twenty-five years of evaluation research are reviewed. Findings show that evaluations of social programs have been negative. Policymakers often blamed the evaluators when it was not clear why certain programs had failed. There is hope for a better working relationship as evaluators adopt better methods and social policy becomes more rational. (VM)

Concludes that at worst, welfare states should be regarded as only one of the unwelcome aspects of poverty, not as a cause of disability. (Author/AM)