The 1960s saw a vigorous expansion of social programs, yet without seeming to resolve the problems themselves. It became clear by the 1970s that these programs provided only partial answers to the problems. Further, while social policy and succeeded in ameliorating some of the existing problems, it had also given rise to new problems no less grave in their effects. A better solution to social problems may lie in traditional practices and traditional restraints. Thus, social policy should be cautioned against abandoning traditional practices and should promote the creation and building of new traditions. The specific areas of education and training are discussed as well as universal and income-tested social programs. The steady pressure in recent years to break up large programs and to introduce important roles for states and cities, for nongovernmental community agencies and institutions, and for beneficiaries and clients is also explored. The reasons behind America's resistance to a fully developed welfare state are discussed. 151 notes, 1 figure, and 3 tables