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Sysmetic inequality
One of the central themes in Poverty, by America, is systemic inequality. Author Matthew Desmond argues that systematic inequality in the way that the government has organized welfare and tax policy. Desmond says that the government has crafted a tax policy that acts as welfare to the wealthy (even though many wealthy households look down upon those who receive things like food stamps).
Not only that, many people experiencing poverty are also dealing with racism, sexism, and classism—all of which contribute to bringing people into poverty. In turn, these issues create systemic barriers that can limit access to quality education, employment opportunities, and resources necessary for upward mobility. In the end, Desmond argues that systemic inequality perpetuates poverty by creating a vicious cycle that creates and maintains economic disparities.
Social stigma
Oftentimes, people experiencing poverty receive social stigma because of their status. Many people experiencing poverty receive things like food stamps and rental assistance, which causes them to be ostracized and frowned upon by people who receive neither. In other words, people experiencing poverty are cast off, and they only spend time with people in their social strata. In turn, this affects their mental health, perpetuating the cycle.
Misconceptions and stigma can lead to a lack of empathy and support for anti-poverty measures like tax reform and universal health. Social stigma can also lead to punitive measures against the poor and a lack of political will to address poverty. They have no desire to do something that doesn't help them or their political career.
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Poverty, by America Questions and Answers
The Question and Answer section for Poverty, by America is a great
resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss the novel.
Poverty, by America study guide contains a biography of Matthew Desmond, literature essays, quiz questions, major themes, characters, and a full summary and analysis.
Social stigma
Oftentimes, people experiencing poverty receive social stigma because of their status. Many people experiencing poverty receive things like food stamps and rental assistance, which causes them to be ostracized and frowned upon by people who receive neither. In other words, people experiencing poverty are cast off, and they only spend time with people in their social strata. In turn, this affects their mental health, perpetuating the cycle.
Misconceptions and stigma can lead to a lack of empathy and support for anti-poverty measures like tax reform and universal health. Social stigma can also lead to punitive measures against the poor and a lack of political will to address poverty. They have no desire to do something that doesn't help them or their political career.