What economic philosophy did the Great Society programs primarily reflect?

The Great Society programs, initiated during the 1960s under President Lyndon B. Johnson, were primarily grounded in the principles of liberalism, specifically aimed at addressing poverty and racial injustice in the United States. This era saw the introduction of various programs that sought to expand civil rights, improve access to education, and provide healthcare for the underprivileged. Key initiatives included the establishment of Medicare and Medicaid, the War on Poverty, and the Civil Rights Act.

This emphasis on social welfare aligned with the broader liberal philosophy that advocates for government intervention as a means to promote social justice and equality. By focusing on reducing poverty and tackling systemic racial issues, the Great Society sought to create a more equitable society and improve the overall quality of life for all citizens, particularly those marginalized or disenfranchised. This approach distinctly contrasts with conservatism, which typically favors limited government intervention and reduced public spending, as well as other economic philosophies such as capitalism and socialism, which have different foundations and objectives.