Poverty

Poverty is a social problem that has been around for centuries. It is defined as the state of being extremely poor. People who are poor lack the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, clothing, and healthcare.

Objective Criteria

The objective criteria for poverty are based on measurable factors, such as income, wealth, and access to resources. According to the World Bank, a person is considered to be living in extreme poverty if they live on less than $1.90 per day. In the United States, a person is considered to be living in poverty if they live on less than $12,880 for a family of four.

Subjective Criteria

The subjective criteria for poverty are based on people’s perceptions of what it means to be poor. These criteria can vary from person to person and from culture to culture. For example, someone who lives in a wealthy country may feel poor if they cannot afford to buy the latest fashions, while someone who lives in a poor country may feel rich if they have enough food to eat.

Why Poverty Qualifies as a Social Problem

Poverty qualifies as a social problem because it has negative consequences for individuals, families, and societies. Individuals who are poor are more likely to experience health problems, have lower educational attainment, and be unemployed. Families that are poor are more likely to experience stress and conflict. Societies that have high levels of poverty are more likely to have crime, violence, and social unrest.

Conclusion

Poverty is a complex social problem with no easy solutions. However, there are a number of things that can be done to address poverty, such as increasing access to education and healthcare, providing job training programs, and raising the minimum wage. By addressing poverty, we can improve the lives of millions of people and make our societies more just and equitable.

In addition to the objective and subjective criteria, there are a number of other factors that can be used to define poverty. These factors include:

• The level of inequality in a society.
• The availability of social safety nets.
• The cultural norms about poverty.
• The political will to address poverty.

The definition of poverty is also influenced by the time period and the specific context. For example, what is considered to be poverty in one country may not be considered to be poverty in another country.

Despite the challenges of defining poverty, it is an important social problem that needs to be addressed. By understanding the causes and consequences of poverty, we can develop effective solutions to this complex problem.