Week 2 Blog 2

 Pol 51                                            Clarice Noziere

Winter 2023

Professor Brandle 

                                                                          Chapter 3

                The unfortunate reality is that without the help of financial aid due to the Great Depression, we may not be as advanced in terms of human rights and civil liberties as we are today. It was during this time that the government recognized the need to provide a safety net for those unable to make ends meet and the importance of working together to ensure the economic security of all citizens. 

                The idea of cooperative federalism arose as a result of the Great Depression. Everything back then has been strengthened by the Covid-19 pandemic to this current day. Through the use of federal funds, states were able to provide vital aid and services that provided much-needed relief to millions of Americans. This was especially helpful for those who lost employment, were unable to keep up with essential bills.

                It is true that the Constitution grants Congress the authority to tax people and spend the money on both domestic and international issues; however, it can be an unfair responsibility on those who are not considered 'rich.' A large portion of these taxes are taken out automatically from our paychecks, and have different percentages depending on the state. Furthermore, the minimum wage varies between States. This means that not everyone who works the same job is getting the same wages. On top of this, many of us don't understand the tax filing process that is required of us - which increases the frustration and feelings of unfairness. I understand why people may perceive the authority of  taxation, but I would not go so far as to say it is ‘unfair’ in its entirety. Mostly all of the money collected, whether it be from individual or corporate taxes, goes to maintain programs planned to benefit the public, such as educational,  immigration improvements, and healthcare programs.     

                Despite this, it’s important to remember that we should be grateful for the ability to contribute to a better future. I believe it is impossible to say what society would look like today without the Great Depression, it is clear thas the impact on cooperative federalism has been felt in a very deep good way and we have all benefited from it.