Chapter 17: Problem 10

"'The poor will always be with us." Does this statement have different meanings depending on whether poverty is interpreted as an absolute or a relative concept?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Explain your answer.

Step by step solution

Define Absolute Poverty

Absolute poverty refers to the lack of basic human needs, such as food, clean water, clothing, sanitation, education, and health care, which is necessary for survival. In this context, poverty is not compared to the wealth of others but rather defined by a specific minimum threshold required for a decent living.

Define Relative Poverty

Relative poverty, on the other hand, compares an individual's income or resources with the rest of the population. A person is considered to be in relative poverty if their income is below a certain percentage (e.g., 50% or 60%) of the average income. This concept is typically used in more developed countries where the majority of the people have their basic needs met, but a portion of the population is still living in an unfavorable socio-economic condition compared to the rest of the society.

Analyze the Statement with Absolute Poverty

If we interpret "The poor will always be with us" in the context of absolute poverty, it means that there will always be people who lack basic human needs, regardless of the overall socio-economic condition of a society. This interpretation highlights the persistence of extreme poverty and the need for continuous effort to provide basic necessities to everyone.

Analyze the Statement with Relative Poverty

When interpreting the statement in the context of relative poverty, it takes on a different meaning. In this case, the statement suggests that there will always be a portion of the population that is considered "poor" compared to the rest of society. This interpretation recognizes the existence of income inequality and the relative nature of poverty in more developed countries.

Compare the Interpretations

In conclusion, the statement "The poor will always be with us" does indeed carry different meanings depending on the interpretation of poverty. When considering absolute poverty, the statement emphasizes the existence and persistence of extreme poverty and the need for continuous efforts to eradicate it. In contrast, interpreting the statement with relative poverty in mind highlights the income inequality and the ever-present nature of poverty in relation to the rest of society.