Michael Harrington

Today, Harrington is almost a forgotten figure. Contemporary historians and sociologists still cite Harrington in their studies of poverty, but few Americans under 50, including most activists with unions, community organizers and civil rights groups, have heard of him.

In an ideal world, families, churches, and volunteer organizations -- exemplifying the idea that we Americans take care of our own without relying on government -- would be the safety net. But this isn't an ideal world.

It's strange that President Obama doesn't show any indignation about our long slide into economic oblivion. He's certainly not "fighting mad" about it. He draws a line in the sand, the Republicans cross it, then he steps back and draws another line in the sand.