Bedlam, Snakepits, and Cages

1031 Words5 Pages
Deplorable Housing Conditions throughout History: Bedlam, Snakepits, and Cages Shelter is one of three universal needs. Gross indifference and negligence by the government often leads to deplorable living conditions for the most socially disadvantaged individuals in the community. This concept has been demonstrated throughout history and is not exclusive to any one culture. In 1948, the United Nations passed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in an attempt to create a universal definition of adequacy and equality for individuals of all nations throughout the world. This agreement recognizes that adequate housing is a necessary facet of the right to an adequate standard of living. All governments have the responsibility to allocate funds for housing and institute policies, programs, and projects that contribute to quality of life for its citizens. When this need is underestimated and not provided based upon the specific needs of the population being served, the results are disastrous. This blight of society would lead one to think that the theater is only in developing countries, but there is a clear history that “advanced” nations allow the poorest individuals in society to suffer as the government shirks their obligation to provide adequate housing. England, the United States, and Hong Kong are among the richest nations in the world, but each have proven that money is not always an indication that the disabled, homeless, and otherwise socially disadvantaged populations will be protected. In fact, it is because of many disasters that legislation and other forms of government intervention are currently in place. Ironically, the government is often present from the onset of the crises. Bethlem Royal Hospital, Willowbrook State School, and Hong Kong’s “cage homes” are suggestions that support this fact. Founded in 1247, Bethlem Royal Hospital is the
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