Back

We've been back for a week and a half now and the thought of trying to post all about the trip is totally overwhelming.

But, on a totally different subject, why do some people, when considering the (gasp!) poor as a group in this country, generalize that it's comprised of a bunch of lazy people who don't want to work and just want everyone else to pick up their tab? While others generalize that the less fortunate want to support themselves and their families and contribute in a meaningful way but can't get ahead because the jobs they do (that need to be done) don't provide a living wage?

How are these opinions shaped?

I have several examples of opposing viewpoints within families, so it can't all be how you're raised. I know people on the wealthy end of the spectrum that assume the latter, while people on the other end of the spectrum assume the former, so it can't all be based on socio-economic standing.

Stats seem to be able to back up whatever viewpoint favors the argument, so it is not all based on numbers.

This is not a political post, but rather sociological. What makes someone a hand-up believer vs. a hand-out believer?

How is social conscience formed?

So this comes to mind because of some of the posts I see on FB, to say nothing of what is in the news. I guess people who are somewhere in the middle and realize there is some of both tend to be less vocal? Moderation is a bit boring, after all.

Yes. My deep thoughts come from Facebook posts. And Jack Handy. (Nod to Jori's latest post.)

I know I have only a handful of readers, but any enlightenment in the comments section would be, well, enlightening.