Final answer:
Jacob Riis's book 'How the Other Half Lives' was influential in highlighting the plight of the urban poor and sparked social reforms, including legislation to improve tenement housing. The book achieved Riis's goal to some extent, creating public awareness and leading to concrete changes in housing laws.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jacob Riis's book How the Other Half Lives had a significant impact on society by drawing attention to the dire living conditions of the urban poor in the late 19th century. Through powerful storytelling and early photojournalism, Riis's compelling photographs and narratives shocked the public and spurred social reform. The exposure of these conditions led to public support for change and resulted in the passing of some of the nation's first laws to improve tenements, which suggests that the book indeed had the impact that Riis hoped for.
While Riis's racial views reflected his time, his role as a reformer is undeniable. He advocated for better living standards and was successful in influencing tenement legislation. The public was confronted with the stark reality of poverty through Riis's work, and this awareness brought about an empathetic response and demanded reforms.
The general consensus is that the book achieved significant attention and was instrumental in fostering change. Whether this change was as extensive or profound as Riis intended can be debated, but it was definitely a catalyst for housing reforms and improved living conditions for the urban poor.