"(White) liberals are always content to salve their own guilty consciences, regardless of the consequences for those they presume to represent. As long as a social program or educational reform "feels good," it is done."
You are so right, and we have LBJ to thank for starting us down this road:
No husband, no job, kids -- NO PROBLEM -- Welfare
Can't afford food -- NO PROBLEM -- Food Stamps
Can't afford a place to live -- NO PROBLEM -- Section 8 housing
Can't afford to make your kids' breakfast and lunch -- NO PROBLEM -- Free school breakfast/lunch program
Did I miss anything? (I'm sure I did!)
That's one of the problems. Most people would not mind temporarily helping those "down on their luck" or whatever. No one takes pleasure in seeing someone with a hard time. But if people know the safety net is available they will take advantage of it in the future.