本文由Sherraden觀點著手，省思資產形成式抗貧政策的相關概念。指出資產形成政策當今之所以復興的理由除了具備政治普及性與實務可操作性外，還與「下層階級(underclass)」自毀性格之社會發展處方符合美式價值、資產累積有助形成國家資本與國際競爭力、並且受到左右兩派側至跨國組織的支持有關。不過，這項政政策在實務操作上傾向以個人作為貧窮的歸因，輕忽結構不平等的重要性；放大了資產的心理、社會與政治效果，卻有待更多證據支持；以及執行過程中尚須種種相應的配套，而這些都構成了資產形成政策的限制。但它一改過往以個人作為政策單位的作法，關切家戶及其社會參與，以及正視個性養成與能力發展等立論，則是值得我們思考取法之處。

Based on Michael Sherraden's theory, this study expounded the origin, assumptions and limits of assets-building policy. It pointed out that the assets-building policy was originated from the “Forty Acres and A Mule” during the Civil War in the middle of 19th century. The causes of revival included the social development strategy of the underclass self-destructive character meeting the American values, accumulation of assets conducive to national capital and international competitiveness, and support from the left and right wings and international organizations, besides public accessibility and practicability. However, in practice, this policy inclined to blamed the poor and ignored the inequitable social structure. It expanded the psychological, social, and political effects of assets, but still needed more evidences. And the execution of the policy required corresponding measures. All of those created limitations to the policy. However, instead of focusing on individuals as in the past, it concerned about the household and social participation, as well as character-building and capacity-developing, which is worth noting.