Many democratic countries address social problems through stronger government intervention. For example, European nations provide universal healthcare and extensive social safety nets, which reduce poverty and improve quality of life. The U.S., in contrast, relies more on private industry and less on government programs, leading to higher rates of inequality.

This book highlights how social movements, from civil rights to labor rights, have historically created change. It's relevant because it reinforces the idea that individuals and organized groups can challenge systemic issues, showing that social change is possible through activism and advocacy.

Social constructionism is the idea that social problems are not just about objective conditions but also about how society perceives them. For example, mental health was once seen as a personal failing rather than a social problem. However, over time, awareness campaigns have shifted public perception, making it a recognized social issue that requires systemic solutions.

This book is cited in the discussion of how sexual violence was historically ignored as a social problem until the women’s movement of the 1970s. It’s relevant because it shows how societal awareness can shape what is considered a social problem, reinforcing the social constructionist perspective.

The concept of blaming the victim rather than the system is frustrating because it overlooks the structural factors that contribute to social problems. For example rather than systemic issues like low wages and lack of affordable housing society blames individuals for their “poor choices”.