Question

Compare the 1950s, the Great Society and Reaganomics. How are they similar and how are they different? Did they have the same goals for America? Which era do you think has the greater legacy to us today? Back up your statements with details.

Answer 1

Comparison between Great society vs. Reaganomics

American Government has been influenced by two competing ideologies, or guiding principles: Liberalism and Conservatism. Liberalism is the belief in the importance of liberty and equal rights, open to new ideas and change, the government is responsible for meeting the needs of society. In contrast, conservatives believe government is responsible for only what individuals cannot do maintaining stability/opposing radical changes. Ronald Reagan’s domestic policy, known as “Reaganomics”, differed from policies before it, especially the

“Great Society”, because of its conservative nature.

Prior to 1980 American Government was dominated by liberal leadership, foremost among them was Lyndon B. Johnson. Johnson believed that the role of the federal government was to take care of the problems with housing, income, employment, and the health of the people. All in all Johnson felt that the government should take all the responsibility possible in order to best suit the people and give them what they want and deserved.

Liberalism believes in the importance of liberty and equal rights and is very open to new ideas and change. The years of liberalism were very strong during the Great Society. With liberalism the government is responsible for meeting the needs of the society and what they want.

Now conservatism or Reaganomics is basically the complete opposite of Liberalism but they are both trying to suit the people, just in different ways. According to Reaganomics the role of the government is to only be responsible for what the people can’t do not what they can do. Conservatives are always looking to cut the budget of the federal government, lower taxes, cut expensive social programs and deficit spending.

Both Great Society and Reaganomics are similar in the sense that they want to do something for the people. However they are different from each other in the sense that their approach and views are opposing to each other.

Yes, goals of Great Society and Reaganomics are similar for Americans. Although they are different in their approaches, their ultimate goal is to serve the people of Anerica.