Tease out a description of families in colonial times, 1920's, 1950s or now (70's to present day). What are the strengths and weaknesses of each era in terms of families?
Given the picture painted of the 50's and our desire for a nurturing family life, what possible solutions do you see for creating strong, functional families today?
**This chapter talks about independence and dependence, what proportions of each do you feel are ideal for family members, for families with society? Why?
**What is the myth of the self-reliant family?
Comment on the following quotes:
p. 118: Private family relations take place against a background of rules set by public authorities; public inequities of gender, race, or class get transferred into private relations; and family norms affect the quality of individuals to exercise public rights.
p. 120: The effective adult, at work and in public, is independent, individualistic, rational, and calculative. The effective family member, by contract, shares, cooperates, sacrifices, and acts nonrationally.
In what areas of family life should the state intervene? What are some of the problems inherent in such "helpful" intervention?