When the 1996 welfare reform legislation ordered the federal government to promote marriage, why did advocates think this was a good thing? What did critics say? What could the government do to promote marriage?
Answer:
An ideal response will:
1. Identify the arguments for this idea: married adults are happier, healthier, and wealthier and are more likely to give their children a healthier start in life; and more marriages could reduce health costs by reducing depression and crime.
2. Identify the arguments against the idea: domestic violence and child abuse occur almost as frequently in married as in unmarried households; government grants for marriage could promote false marriages designed to get cash; and the best way to improve conditions of welfare recipients is to find them good-paying jobs.
3. Note the ways government could promote marriage: by reducing the penalties imposed on welfare recipients who get married, and through advertising, counseling, or even providing cash grants for getting married.
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