In This Affluent Society

Vol. 1 in the PBS video history, America’s War on Poverty (1995)

Synopsis

In This Affluent Society examines how the problem of poverty was brought to light in the 1960s, how it was diagnosed by the Kennedy/Johnson administrations, and the basic remedies that were proposed. Additionally, it provides illuminating insight into the mindset of what came to be called “Kennedy/Johnson liberalism” (aka “1960s liberalism” or “Great Society liberalism”).

Questions for analyzing the film

1. Type of film?
2. Who are the producers/writers?
3. Context in which it was made?

“Sequences”

Sequences = chapters in a book. Use this outline to determine important terms & people. Also, note the argument or Main Point made in each sequence.

Intro:  The Affluent Society of the 1950s

A. Poverty in the Affluent Society.
Main Point:

1. Appalachia
2. Immigration to Northern Cities: Hope & Disillusionment

B.  President Kennedy Discovers the Poor.
Main Point:

1. The Other America, Harrington
2. Civil Rights Movement
3. Violence in Hazard County, KY

C. President Johnson Declares a “War on Poverty.” 
Main Point:

1. On his desk:  “The Nature of Poverty”
2. Sargent Shriver, Office of Economic Opportunity
3. LBJ’s approach to the problem
4. The Gulf of Tonkin Resolution

Conclusion

Even as the War on Poverty commenced, commitment to this war was immediately tested by another war on the other side of the world—Vietnam

Postviewing Questions (answer these for your notes)

1. Why did LBJ commence a “War on Poverty”?  Try to list six or so reasons.
2. How would you characterize the film’s point of view on the Kennedy/Johnson approach to poverty?  (Celebratory?  Respectful?  Critical?)