Reply #11: Which is why we needed to get those unemployment benefits ...

[frazzled]

extended and the earned income credit expanded, etc. this time: these were measures that disproportionately affect the poorest among us -- unemployment is vastly higher among the lesser educated, economically less well off right now.

That said, even in these rough times, I haven't heard anyone ask for a return to a full and permanent welfare system. I hate to admit it, but there was some truth to the idea that work gives dignity, and I think people came to accept that. People want jobs now, not welfare.