Final answer:
The settlement movement differed from earlier philanthropy in that it involved direct, hands-on assistance and living among the urban poor, coupled with a drive for both social and legislative reform.
Step-by-step explanation:
The settlement movement was distinct from earlier philanthropic efforts primarily through its emphasis on social and living conditions reform rather than purely charitable acts. These efforts were pioneered by leaders such as Jane Addams and Lillian Wald, who founded settlement houses in urban areas beginning in the late 19th century.
Unlike traditional philanthropy which often involved detached acts of giving, settlement house workers would live among the people they served, aiming to understand and improve the lives of the urban poor through a variety of services such as education, daycare, legal aid, and healthcare.
Additionally, the movement strongly advocated for and led to social reforms, like housing laws and labor rights, including the establishment of the National Child Labor Committee.
The settlement movement diverged from the Social Gospel Movement, though both sought to apply ethical principles to social issues. While the Social Gospel Movement was rooted in Christianity and sought to apply Christian ethics to social problems, the settlement movement operated more secularly, emphasizing the need for social change and justice through direct involvement with the working-class population.
The integration of the social work profession is also a noteworthy difference, as volunteers and workers within settlement houses played a crucial role in shaping and professionalizing social work.