sbark,

Your overview of Detroit and the governments efforts to make a model city proves one thing.   Insanity has been defined as "doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different outcome".  

Our government continually throws money at problems which cannot be solved by this method.  The real problem is not being addressed which is people need a reason for living.  The only thing the government does is give them a way to exist.  

A reason for living revolves around a feeling of individual worth.  This comes about by earning a living and helping others.  To just exist on governmental handouts only destroys what little feeling of worth people have.  It does perpetuate the ability of those in government to remain in power as it, in essence, buys votes.  The problem is that it is a continual downhill spiral which will eventually self destruct.  

If much of the money which has been spent on handouts would have been used to create jobs, no matter how menial, it would have at least given those who were receiving aid a feeling they were of value to society.  

The politicians have used the poor to enable them and their political parties to remain in power.  They have taken advantage of the poor.  Unless there is a radical change in the way the government "helps" the poor we will only continue the downward spiral until our society self destructs.  I think we are nearing that point at this time.  

Our political system no longer works in a way that will allow our country to maintain its position as a world leader.  Greed and the lust for power has brought our political system to the point where is has destroyed the future of many Americans.  We have lost the ability to govern ourselves in a sane and rational manner.