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Poverty Is The Most Far Reaching Social Problem

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Poverty is the most far reaching social problem that the population of the world faces today. Poverty does not discriminate against race or age. History has show that even social classes living above the poverty line are not safe from the treat of poverty(Meissnerd). A social problem is defined as a "condition that undermines the well-being of some or all members of a society and is usually a matter of public controversy(Macionis).” Poverty is defined as the state of one who lacks a usual or socially acceptable amount of money or material possessions (Merriam-Webster). Poverty can cause the wellbeing of children and adults to suffer from lack of necessities and comforts. We will look in depth at the how poverty has been defined, perceived, socially constructed, and shaped by claims making on the national, state and local level. We will also consider how this condition has been approached by sociology, viewed politically, and dealt with through government policy (Robinson).
Poverty in the United States In America, 15% of the population lives under the poverty line. The poverty line is a calculated amount that an individual or family should make to maintain housing, food and basic necessities; the poverty line is used by the government to track the poor (Macionis). About 20% of those under the poverty level, which is 5% of the total population, would be considered living in deep poverty with a large poverty gap. When families or individuals fit into the category of deep

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