Poverty
Definition
Poverty refers to the state of being extremely poor, with a lack of basic human needs such as food, clean water, clothing, shelter, health care and education due to insufficient income or resources.
Analogy
Imagine trying to bake a cake without all the necessary ingredients. You might be able to make something edible, but it won't be a proper cake. Similarly, people living in poverty lack the essential 'ingredients' for a healthy and fulfilling life.
Related terms
Absolute poverty: This is when individuals or families cannot afford basic necessities like food, clothing and shelter.
Relative poverty: This is when an individual's or family's income is significantly lower than the average income in their society.
Poverty line: The minimum level of income deemed adequate in a particular country.
"Poverty" appears in:
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (3)
Which perspective argues that overpopulation is the root cause of poverty, environmental degradation, and other social issues?
What African country is frequently used as an example of severe population issues including overpopulation and poverty?
How does the unpaid nature of women’s agricultural labor contribute to poverty?
Resources
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