The Third Lie: Why Government Programs Don't Work—and a Blueprint for Change
“Challenging both sides of the political spectrum, Gelles delivers a  compelling case for the limits of government intervention along with a  stimulating argument for creating a national program that works for  children.  A provocative study by one of the nation’s leading child  welfare scholars, this book should spark a serious debate about how to  advance policies that benefit children  – required reading for anyone  interested in the future course of  US social welfare policy.”—Neil Gilbert, Chernin Professor of Social Welfare and Co-Director of  the Center for Child and Youth Policy, University of California,  Berkeley“The title of Richard Gelles’ ‘The Third Lie: Why Government Programs  Don’t Work—and a Blueprint for Change’ signals the kind of book this  is.  It is irreverent, generously sprinkled with catchy phrases and  well-told (if sometimes simplified) stories of government  underperformance, and serious about challenging us to change.  In all,  Gelles has written a tough critique of American social policy with  substantial amounts of wit, anecdote, and lessons learned from decades  of being a leading social scientist.  His ‘Futures Account’ proposal to  invest in universal prevention programs that would genuinely benefit  children in all economic groups is bolder and, also, more detailed than  many prior proposals. He rightfully predicts that he will take shots  from both sides—it could well be that the ‘Futures Account’ will remain  standing after the smoke clears.  If you relish the idea of rethinking  most every aspect of children and family services you will be thankful  that you picked up this book.”—Richard P. Barth, School of Social Work, University of Maryland“This book presents a very original, unorthodox analysis of what  ails  us and how we might regain our economic, social, and political  health.”—Amitai Etzioni, professor, George Washington University