There is no doubt that the United States is a global economic powerhouse. But it faces a stark contradiction: Substantial wealth coexists with persistent poverty. In “Poverty, by America,” Pulitzer prize-winner Matthew Desmond delves into this paradox, revealing a persistent poverty rate of around 21% over the past fifty years.

Today, we will explore the multifaceted nature of poverty in America despite its immense riches. Now, let’s go ahead and see why Americans, despite being born into one of the world’s wealthiest countries, are still poor. We will be viewing this paradox in the view of Mathew Desmond’s best-selling book “Poverty, by America.”

Pixabay / Pexels / In his book “Poverty, by America,” Desmond argues that the poverty rate in the U.S. has been hovering around 21% for the last five decades.

Deep-Rooted Causes of Poverty

Desmond’s research sheds light on various systemic and societal factors contributing to American poverty:

• Economic Disparities: The chasm between the rich and the poor in America is vast and growing, leading to a concentration of wealth and resources in the hands of a few.
• Racial Disparities: Racial minorities, particularly African Americans and Hispanics, face poverty disproportionately, stemming from long-standing systemic discrimination.
• Educational Barriers: Inequality in educational opportunities, especially in underfunded schools in low-income areas, perpetuates the cycle of poverty.

Government Policies Are a Double-Edged Sword

The role of government policies in addressing or aggravating poverty is significant. In his book, Desmond examines several aspects. Some of the leading ones include:

Karolina / Pexels / Blame the system, Desmond argues, as he views the American system as flawed and “corrupt.”

• Welfare Programs: While intended to support the needy, these programs often have complex requirements and can disincentivize progress out of fear of losing benefits.
• Healthcare System: The absence of a comprehensive healthcare system places a heavy financial burden on low-income families, often exacerbating their poverty.

Apart from that, Desmond also highlights the cultural dimensions of poverty in America—a phenomenon where societal attitudes often blame individuals for their impoverished state.

He argues that the prevalent belief in ‘self-made success’ often disregards the structural obstacles that many Americans face in escaping poverty.

Pathways to Alleviating Poverty

Sure, poverty in the U.S. is the byproduct of the system. But Desmond does not leave the reader in despair. Instead, he offers avenues for reducing poverty:

• Reforming Policies: Making welfare, tax, and healthcare policies more equitable can significantly impact poverty reduction.
• Investing in Education: Ensuring equal access to quality education is critical for breaking the cycle of poverty.

Weber / Pexels / Poverty is generated ‘by’ America, not ‘in’ America. Desmond explains in his best-selling book “Poverty, by America.”

Grassroots initiatives can provide essential support and resources to those in poverty. However, it goes without saying that Desmond urges his readers to be “poverty abolitionists,” meaning that every Desmond reader should play his role in alleviating poverty from a country that is rich through and through.

Summing Up

“Poverty, by America” is not just an analysis of the problem but a call to action. It urges a reevaluation of our approach to poverty, emphasizing the need for systemic change and collective responsibility.

The book reminds us that while the issue of poverty is complex, solutions are within reach with the right policies and societal support.