What is poverty
Poverty is a state or condition in which one lacks the financial resources and essentials for
a certain standard of living. Poverty can have diverse environmental, legal, social,
economic, and political causes and effects.
Absolute poverty
Absolute poverty is a state in which a person cannot meet their most basic needs, such as
food, shelter, water, and clothing. It is different from relative poverty, which is a situation in
which a person’s income is low compared to others in their society. Absolute poverty is
measured by a certain level of income that is necessary to afford the basic necessities of
life.
Relative Poverty
Relative poverty is a condition or a state of having less income or resources than others in
a society or a group. It is measured by comparing the income of a person or a household to
the median income of the country or the group. Relative poverty may also affect access to
certain privileges and basic human needs, such as housing, healthcare, and education.
Situational poverty
Situational poverty is a type of poverty caused by a sudden or severe crisis that affects a
family's material resources and ability to meet their minimum needs. Situational poverty is
different from generational poverty, which is a form of long-term and entrenched poverty
that can span multiple generations. Situational poverty is usually temporary and can be
traced to a specific event or condition, such as job loss, divorce, or illness.
Generational Poverty
Generational poverty is a term applied to families who have experienced poverty for at
least two generations. It is different from situational poverty, which is caused by a
temporary crisis or change. Generational poverty is a systemic and lasting problem that
affects every aspect of a person’s life. It is often associated with a lack of education,
resources, and hope.
What is inequality
The term inequality refers to a condition of being unequal or given an unequal share of
treatment, status, or opportunity. People are often aware of inequalities in social status,
human rights, education, job availability, and income opportunities. A continued
perception of racial, social, and wealth inequality and discrimination continues to plague
society, causing discontent, anger, and even fear
Types of inequality
There are five systems or types of social inequality: wealth inequality, responsibility
inequality, political inequality, life inequality, and membership inequality.
• Wealth inequality refers to an economy where a small number of people own
almost all of the valuable land, properties and assets
• Responsibility inequality refers to a situation where some individuals bear more
responsibilities and receive better compensation or benefits compared to others,
even when they are equally qualified.
• Political inequality is the difference brought about by the ability to access
governmental resources which therefore have no civic equality
• Life inequality encompasses various dimensions that shape the human experience
• Membership inequality is a concept that examines how one's memberships in
various groups affect one's preferences, beliefs, and opportunities
