Poverty and Its Effects on Society and the Economy

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I. Introduction

In many parts of the world, poverty has been a continuing issue of concern. The weight of the concern affects both developed and developing states. By broad definition, poverty can be defined as the scarcity or deprivation of basic human needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing. There are various reasons why the world is experiencing such state. By knowing the reasons, we can analyze and determine what it needs to be done in order to address the issue and help alleviate the problems faced by these countries.

II. Poverty and Its Relevance

It is an issue due to its disruptive effects to society and the economy. If people do not have access to clean waters, adequate food, and permanent shelter, it could lead to poor sanitation, polluted environment, and escalated crime and violence.

There are many effects of poverty to people, such as unemployment, poor housing and living conditions, alcohol and substance abuse, lack or no education, and water and food related diseases (www.poverties.org, 2013). It can be a continuing cycle. Because of no education, there would be unemployment, poor housing conditions, diseases and substance abuse, etc. It could also be the other way, blaming the other effects for plagues the society has received from poverty.

Another effect of poverty is crime. Among impoverished areas, crime is one of the obvious effects of poverty due to high unemployment rates. Low incomes tend to prompt property-related crimes, such as burglary and illegal trafficking. In a broader sense, discrimination and social bias generate violent crimes. Lack of social cohesion and harmony can lead to riots and social unrest (www.poverties.org, 2013).

Although there is no direct proof that poverty effects the env...

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