What is a primary social concern in the U.S. from the 1970s to the present?

The primary social concern in the U.S. from the 1970s to the present is the disparity between the wealthy and middle class. This issue has become increasingly prominent due to a combination of factors such as wage stagnation, rising costs of living, and a growing concentration of wealth among the top percentage of income earners. This widening gap has significant implications for economic mobility, access to education, healthcare, and overall societal well-being, reflecting deeper systemic issues within the economy.

Economic studies and various reports have highlighted how the middle class has faced challenges in maintaining their standard of living while wealth has increasingly become concentrated. This concern has led to broader discussions about economic policy, taxation, and the social safety net, indicating that addressing income inequality continues to be a key social concern that resonates with many Americans.

In contrast, the other choices do not reflect the same level of concern or impact on society during this time frame, as immigration patterns have changed but are not perceived as a primary social concern relative to economic disparities, and while participation in global politics and the expansion of social welfare programs are relevant topics, they do not encapsulate the overarching concern regarding income inequality in the same manner.