Dr. Marilyn Reitz-Pustejovsky
Examining Homelessness: Insights into Welfare Policies, Social Theories, and Pandemic Effects on Displaced Individuals.This comprehensive study delves into the complex world of homelessness, casting a light on the hardships faced by men, women, children, and families living in the fringes of society. It brings into focus the interplay between societal attitudes, political policies, and the day-to-day realities of those without a home. Living Lives in Quiet Desperation is crafted in four parts, each bringing a unique perspective to the subject. The first segment profiles five individuals living on the streets of a major southwestern city, offering a raw and intimate account of their experiences. The second part delves into the historical context, examining social welfare policies in the United States throughout the 20th century and their influence on current conditions.The third segment interweaves these policies with real-life narratives, analyzed through the lenses of social theorist Jürgen Habermas, feminist theorist Seyla Benhabib, and care theorist Joan Tronto. The interpretation of major federal laws and their impact on the interviewed individuals forms a significant part of this examination.The final part brings the discussion into the present, focusing on the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic on the homeless and the social services designed to support them. It uncovers the challenges faced by service providers and the lessons they have learned, offering insights into future responsibilities and strategies for caring for displaced persons during such crises.Living Lives in Quiet Desperation calls for a reevaluation of our roles as ethical and moral individuals. It invites the reader to question and reflect on how we can effect change and extend support to those who need it most. It is a poignant exploration of the human condition, a necessary read for anyone seeking to understand and contribute to alleviating homelessness in our society.
