SOCL 2001 Chapter : Poverty
Document Summary
Poverty = condition of deprivation due to economic circumstances that is severe enough that the individual in this condition cannot live with dignity in his/her society. 1960 first social programs (anti-poverty programs such as social security) Core of debate is the question of whether poverty is the cause of social ills such as crime, poor educational outcomes, divorce, and so on, or whether it is the result. Recession = a period of economic decline lasting half a year or more. Culture of poverty theory = argues that poor people adopt certain practices, which differ from middle-class, mainstream society, in order to adapt and survive in difficult economic circumstances. Reliance on welfare generates a sense of helplessness and dependency in some people, there are also structural reasons why it can be difficult to transition from welfare to work. Underclass = while the poor in different from society, they have an ill advantage to take opportunities from society.
