Answer :
Final answer:
The 'hidden welfare state' refers to indirect government assistance such as tax breaks and subsidies, which benefit middle and upper-income groups more than the poor. Despite being a federal initiative, the power to oversee welfare provision has shifted toward states since the late 20th century. This contrasts with the traditional U.S. view of limited government, signifying a shift in social policies.
Explanation:
The hidden welfare state is a term to describe indirect forms of governmental assistance that defies the standard narrative of social policy in the U.S. This includes tax breaks, subsidies, and other forms of hidden government support. These policies often provide more benefit to the middle and upper classes more than the poor, leading to income inequality.
Despite the social welfare policies being primarily federal initiatives, there has been a shift towards greater state control since the latter 20th century. Following the implementation of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act in 1996, states have greater autonomy to dictate the provision of welfare, leading to diversity in implementation and outcomes across the nation.
Given the U.S. tradition of freedom and the principle of limited government, the hidden welfare state represents a departure from the standard view of government assistance, towards less visible but equally consequential forms of social policy. The debate about the benefits and drawbacks of this approach highlights differing views on the role of government in society.
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