filmmaking. He tackles taboo subjects, such as discrimination and hatred in the consumer driven, economically unequal culture of America. Two of his best works, Do the Right Thing and Malcolm X, are a testament to his ability to raise difficult issues, and bring African-American culture and history to the forefront of American popular culture.
             Unfortunately, there are still many people in America who believe that poverty is the result of individual lack, and/or poor moral character. In years past, the US has enjoyed periods of strong economic growth due to the mass production system. The skill requirements were basic. However, the increasingly technological global economy has eroded the fundamental institutions of the mass production system, leaving many stranded without the training to compete for jobs. In addition, corporate cutbacks have led many of the big companies to hire laborers outside the US. The lack of sufficient jobs, education, and income in inner city areas has created a racially segregated living situation, in which the downward spiral of poverty rears its ugly head. These racially segregated areas are not formed solely from economic circumstances; they are also due to racism and a lack of understanding between black and white peoples.
             Food stamps, Medicaid, and the Supplemental Security Income provide minor relief from poverty. However, "targeted programs for the poor in the United States do not even begin address inequities in the social class system."(Wilson, 155) For example, because Medicaid pays much less than other private health policies, many doctors refuse to treat Medicaid patients. Also, many of the housing or business developments are directed at the middle class, and not the poor. Instead of trying to improve the ghetto neighborhoods, cities build malls and condominiums. "Because of racial segregation, a significant share of Black America is condemned to experience a soci...