Poverty and Deprivation: Diverse Perspectives

Introduction

• Topic of Chapter 5: Diverse perspectives on poverty and deprivation
• This topic is important as it is frequently asked in exams
• Discussion will focus on the Indian perspective

Definition and Perspectives of Poverty

• Sir John Sinclair and F.A. Dane: In the 18th century, poverty was considered a social issue
• Definition of Poverty: When there is a lack of necessary means
• Two types of poverty: Relative and Absolute
  • Absolute: Absence of basic necessities (food, clothing, shelter)
  • Relative: Lack in comparison to other people in society

Poverty and Social Structure

• Relationship between poverty, social division, and stratification
• Relationship among upper, middle, and lower classes
• Pierre Bourdieu's view: Lack of "cultural excellence" in the lower class

Amartya Sen's Multidimensional Perspective

• Multidimensional Poverty: Importance of health, education, and social capital
• Information and Mental Well-being: Relationship between education and health

Social Capital and Political Power

• Social Capital: Level of your networks and trust
• Political Power: The extent to which your voice is heard

Cultural Capital

• Cultural Capital: Assessment based on your cultural background
• Human Capital: Importance of skills and abilities

Max Weber's Perspective

• Protestant Ethics and the development of capitalism
• Impact of religious beliefs on economic growth

Cultural Poverty and Its Impact

• Oscar Lewis's view: Cultural perspective on the permanence of poverty
• Absence of resources in India

Gender and Poverty

• Poor Condition of Women: Gender discrimination and income disparity
• Effects of Glass Ceiling and Pink Collar Jobs

Single Parenthood and Its Impact

• Increasing number of single mothers and their economic struggle
• Anthony Giddens's view: Relationship between single parenthood and poverty

Environmental Issues and Women

• Chipko Movement: Impact on environment and women's lives
• Clean Stove: Improvement in health and education

Policy and Government Efforts

• National Food Security Act and its criticism
• Social Security and guarantee of minimum income

Voluntary Poverty

• Voluntary Poverty: Choosing poverty for religious and moral reasons
• View of Pope Benedict 16: Differences among types of poverty

Conclusion

• Poverty is a complex issue, involving social, economic, and cultural factors
• The role of the government is crucial, and we should help the poor.