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The United States, the richest country on earth, has more poverty than any other advanced democracy. Why? Why does this land of plenty allow one in every eight of its children to go without basic necessities, permit scores of its citizens to live and die on the streets, and authorize its corporations to pay poverty wages?
In this landmark book, acclaimed sociologist Matthew Desmond draws on history, research, and original reporting to show how affluent Americans knowingly and unknowingly keep poor people poor. Those of us who are financially secure exploit the poor, driving down their wages while forcing them to overpay for housing and access to cash and credit. We prioritize the subsidization of our wealth over the alleviation of poverty, designing a welfare state that gives the most to those who need the least. And we stockpile opportunity in exclusive communities, creating zones of concentrated riches alongside those of concentrated despair. Some lives are made small so that others may grow.
Elegantly written and fiercely argued, this compassionate book gives us new ways of thinking about a morally urgent problem. It also helps us imagine solutions. Desmond builds a startlingly original and ambitious case for ending poverty. He calls on us all to become poverty abolitionists, engaged in a politics of collective belonging to usher in a new age of shared prosperity and, at last, true freedom.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0593239911/
Contents - summary created by ChatGPT-3.5
Prologue
The prologue of "Poverty, by America" by Matthew Desmond sets the stage for the rest of the book by highlighting the stark reality of poverty in America. Desmond paints a picture of a country that is deeply divided along economic lines, where the wealthy enjoy a level of comfort and security that is beyond the reach of the poor.
In the prologue, Desmond introduces us to some of the individuals he has come to know during his research on poverty. These are people who are struggling to make ends meet, who are trapped in a cycle of poverty that is difficult to break.
The prologue also serves to challenge some of the common stereotypes about poverty in America. Desmond shows us that poverty is not just a problem for people who are lazy or uneducated; it affects people from all walks of life, including those who are working multiple jobs just to make ends meet.
One of the key themes that emerges in the prologue is the idea of eviction. Desmond explains how eviction is a major factor in perpetuating poverty, as it disrupts people's lives and makes it difficult for them to establish a stable home base.
Another important theme that emerges in the prologue is the idea of housing discrimination. Desmond shows us how people who are poor or who have a criminal record are often denied access to safe and affordable housing, which further exacerbates the cycle of poverty.
The prologue also highlights the role of race in perpetuating poverty. Desmond shows us how people of color are disproportionately affected by poverty and face greater barriers to success than their white counterparts.
Throughout the prologue, Desmond uses vivid descriptions and personal anecdotes to bring the stories of his subjects to life. He shows us the human side of poverty, and makes us feel the pain and struggle that these individuals are experiencing.
One of the most powerful aspects of the prologue is the sense of urgency that it conveys. Desmond makes it clear that poverty is not just a problem for the people who are experiencing it; it is a problem for all of us, as it undermines the fabric of our society and creates divisions that are difficult to bridge.
The prologue also sets up a compelling narrative arc for the rest of the book. Desmond makes it clear that he is not just interested in documenting the problem of poverty; he is also interested in exploring potential solutions and advocating for change.
Overall, the prologue of "Poverty, by America" is a powerful and thought-provoking introduction to the book. It sets the stage for a deep dive into the complex issues surrounding poverty in America, and challenges us to think deeply about our own attitudes and assumptions towards this critical issue.
The Kind of Probelm Poverty Is
In chapter one, "The Kind of Problem Poverty Is," Matthew Desmond explores the multifaceted nature of poverty and the challenges that it poses to individuals and society as a whole.
Desmond begins by challenging the notion that poverty is solely an individual problem. He argues that poverty is a societal problem, and that we must recognize the role that social and economic systems play in perpetuating poverty.
One of the key themes that emerges in this chapter is the idea of scarcity. Desmond shows us how poverty creates a sense of scarcity in people's lives, leading to a constant struggle for resources and an inability to plan for the future.
Desmond also explores the psychological toll that poverty takes on individuals. He describes how poverty can lead to feelings of shame and humiliation, and can make it difficult for people to feel like they are part of society.
Another important theme that emerges in this chapter is the idea of structural inequality. Desmond argues that poverty is not just a matter of individual choices or behaviors; it is also the result of systemic inequalities that are built into our economic and social systems.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond uses vivid examples and personal anecdotes to illustrate the challenges that people living in poverty face. He shows us how poverty affects every aspect of people's lives, from their health and well-being to their social relationships and sense of self-worth.
One of the most powerful aspects of this chapter is the way that Desmond challenges our assumptions about poverty. He shows us that poverty is not just a matter of individual failure or personal responsibility, but is rather a complex problem that requires systemic solutions.
Desmond also emphasizes the importance of listening to the voices of people living in poverty. He argues that we cannot truly understand the nature of poverty unless we listen to the experiences and perspectives of those who are most affected by it.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond makes it clear that poverty is not a static or fixed condition. He shows us how poverty is a dynamic and evolving problem that requires ongoing attention and action.
Overall, "The Kind of Problem Poverty Is" is a powerful and insightful chapter that lays the groundwork for a deep exploration of poverty in America. It challenges us to think differently about poverty, and to recognize the importance of systemic change in addressing this critical issue.
Why Haven't We Made More Progress?
In chapter two, "Why Haven't We Made More Progress?" Matthew Desmond explores the reasons why poverty continues to be such a pervasive problem in the United States, despite decades of efforts to address it.
Desmond argues that one of the key reasons for this lack of progress is the failure of policymakers and the public to fully understand the nature of poverty. He suggests that poverty is often misunderstood as a static condition rather than a dynamic process that is shaped by economic and social systems.
Another important factor that Desmond identifies is the role of race in shaping poverty. He argues that the legacy of systemic racism in the United States has contributed to the persistence of poverty in communities of color.
Desmond also explores the impact of neoliberal economic policies on poverty. He suggests that the emphasis on individual responsibility and market-based solutions has led to a neglect of the systemic factors that contribute to poverty.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to poverty that addresses both the immediate needs of individuals and the systemic factors that contribute to poverty.
Desmond also challenges the idea that poverty is solely a matter of individual choices or behaviors. He suggests that poverty is the result of systemic inequalities and structures that limit the opportunities and resources available to individuals and communities.
Another important theme that emerges in this chapter is the idea of political will. Desmond argues that a lack of political will to address poverty is a major barrier to progress, and that we need to prioritize poverty reduction at all levels of government.
Desmond also highlights the importance of data and research in understanding poverty and developing effective policy solutions. He argues that we need to invest in rigorous research and data collection to better understand the nature of poverty and how to address it.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond calls for a shift in public discourse around poverty. He suggests that we need to move away from blaming individuals for their poverty and instead focus on the systemic factors that contribute to poverty.
Overall, "Why Haven't We Made More Progress?" is a powerful and insightful chapter that challenges us to rethink our approach to poverty reduction. Desmond emphasizes the need for systemic change and a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of poverty, rather than just the symptoms.
How We Undercut Workers
In chapter three, "How We Undercut Workers," Matthew Desmond explores the challenges faced by low-wage workers in the United States and the ways in which economic and political systems have contributed to their struggles.
Desmond argues that low-wage workers are often exploited by their employers, who pay low wages, provide few benefits, and subject workers to unpredictable schedules and working conditions.
Another important factor that Desmond identifies is the impact of globalization on low-wage workers. He suggests that the offshoring of manufacturing jobs and the growth of the service sector have led to a decline in wages and job security for many workers.
Desmond also explores the role of government policies in undercutting workers. He suggests that anti-union laws, deregulation, and the erosion of labor protections have contributed to the weakening of worker bargaining power.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond highlights the importance of workers' rights and protections. He argues that we need to prioritize policies that protect workers from exploitation and ensure that they are able to earn a living wage and access basic benefits.
Desmond also emphasizes the need for collective action and solidarity among workers. He suggests that unions and other worker-led organizations can play a crucial role in improving working conditions and bargaining power for low-wage workers.
Another important theme that emerges in this chapter is the impact of gender and race on low-wage work. Desmond shows us how women and people of color are disproportionately represented in low-wage jobs and are often subject to additional forms of discrimination and exploitation.
Desmond also explores the ways in which the gig economy and the rise of platforms like Uber and Lyft have impacted low-wage workers. He suggests that while these platforms offer flexibility, they also undermine worker protections and create new forms of exploitation.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond argues that we need to prioritize the rights and well-being of workers in our economic and political systems. He suggests that by valuing and investing in workers, we can create a more equitable and just society for all.
Overall, "How We Undercut Workers" is a powerful and insightful chapter that sheds light on the challenges faced by low-wage workers in the United States. Desmond challenges us to recognize the value of workers and prioritize their well-being and rights in our economic and political systems.
How We Force the Poor to Pay More
In chapter four, "How We Force the Poor to Pay More," Matthew Desmond examines the ways in which poverty is expensive, and how the poor often end up paying more for basic goods and services than wealthier Americans.
Desmond argues that low-income families are often forced to rely on high-cost alternatives, such as payday loans, rent-to-own stores, and check-cashing services, which charge exorbitant fees and interest rates.
Desmond highlights how this cycle of debt and financial insecurity can trap families in poverty, as they struggle to keep up with payments and are unable to save for emergencies or long-term goals.
One key factor that Desmond identifies is the lack of access to affordable housing. He shows how low-income families are often forced to rent substandard apartments at high prices, or to live in overcrowded and unsafe conditions.
Desmond also explores the impact of predatory lending practices, such as payday loans and subprime mortgages, which target low-income borrowers with high fees and interest rates.
Another important theme that emerges in this chapter is the role of government policies in exacerbating poverty. Desmond suggests that cuts to social welfare programs and the erosion of labor protections have contributed to the growth of poverty and the exploitation of low-income families.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond emphasizes the need for policies that support and protect low-income families. He suggests that we need to prioritize affordable housing, access to credit and financial services, and stronger consumer protections.
Desmond also highlights the importance of community-based organizations and movements in addressing poverty and fighting for economic justice. He shows how these groups can help provide support and resources for low-income families, and advocate for policies that promote equity and fairness.
Another important theme that Desmond explores is the impact of race and discrimination on poverty. He shows how people of color are disproportionately represented among the poor, and are often subject to additional forms of discrimination and exploitation.
Overall, "How We Force the Poor to Pay More" is a powerful and illuminating chapter that exposes the injustices and hardships faced by low-income families in the United States. Desmond challenges us to recognize the cost of poverty, and to take action to create a more just and equitable society for all.
How We Rely on Welfare
In chapter six, "How We Rely on Welfare," Matthew Desmond examines the role of social welfare programs in addressing poverty in the United States.
Desmond challenges common stereotypes about welfare recipients, arguing that the vast majority of people who receive government assistance are working, elderly, or disabled.
He shows how social welfare programs, such as SNAP (formerly known as food stamps) and TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), provide crucial support for low-income families, helping them to access basic needs like food, housing, and medical care.
Desmond also highlights the importance of programs like Medicaid and CHIP, which provide health care coverage to low-income families and children.
One key theme that emerges in this chapter is the role of politics in shaping social welfare policies. Desmond suggests that welfare has become a highly politicized issue, with conservative politicians and pundits often demonizing recipients and advocating for cuts to social programs.
Desmond argues that this rhetoric has contributed to the stigmatization of welfare, and has made it more difficult for people to access the support they need.
Another important theme in this chapter is the impact of poverty on children. Desmond shows how poverty can have long-lasting effects on children's health, education, and life outcomes, and argues that investing in social welfare programs is crucial for promoting upward mobility and reducing inequality.
Throughout the chapter, Desmond emphasizes the need for a more compassionate and effective approach to social welfare. He suggests that we need to expand access to programs like SNAP and TANF, while also addressing the root causes of poverty, such as low wages and discrimination.
Desmond also highlights the importance of listening to the voices of people who have experienced poverty and reliance on social welfare programs. He shows how the perspectives of those who have been directly impacted by poverty and government policies can inform more effective solutions.
Overall, "How We Rely on Welfare" is a powerful and timely chapter that challenges common misconceptions about social welfare programs and advocates for a more just and equitable society for all. Desmond shows how investing in social welfare is not only the right thing to do, but also the smart thing to do for the well-being and prosperity of our country.
How We Buy Opportunity
In the chapter seven "How We Buy Opportunity," Matthew Desmond discusses how the poor are often at a disadvantage when it comes to accessing the goods and services that can help them get ahead in life. He argues that this is due in large part to the fact that poverty is not just a lack of money, but a lack of access to the networks, institutions, and opportunities that are available to those with more resources.
One of the key ways in which the poor are disadvantaged in the marketplace is through what Desmond calls "exploitative exchange." This refers to situations in which the poor are forced to pay more for goods and services than those with more resources, either because they lack the bargaining power to negotiate better prices or because they are targeted by predatory lenders and other unscrupulous businesses.
Exploitative exchange can take many forms, from high-interest payday loans to rent-to-own furniture and appliances. Desmond argues that these practices are not just unethical, but also undermine the basic principles of a free and fair market.
Another way in which the poor are disadvantaged in the marketplace is through what Desmond calls "opportunity hoarding." This refers to the tendency of those with more resources to use their wealth and connections to secure opportunities for themselves and their families, often at the expense of those with fewer resources.
Opportunity hoarding can take many forms, from private schools and gated communities to internships and job connections. Desmond argues that these practices not only limit the opportunities available to the poor, but also reinforce social inequality by entrenching advantages and disadvantages across generations.
One of the key ways in which opportunity hoarding operates is through what Desmond calls "social capital." This refers to the networks of relationships and connections that people use to navigate the world and gain access to opportunities.
Those with more social capital are often better positioned to secure opportunities for themselves and their families, while those with less are left to rely on more impersonal market mechanisms. This can create a vicious cycle in which the poor are locked out of the networks and opportunities that could help them get ahead.
Desmond argues that one of the key ways to break this cycle is to invest in what he calls "public social infrastructure." This refers to the institutions and services that provide opportunities and support to all members of society, regardless of their social status.
Examples of public social infrastructure include public schools, libraries, and community centers, as well as programs like Medicare and Social Security. By investing in these institutions and services, we can create a more level playing field and give everyone a fair shot at success.
In the final analysis, Desmond's chapter "How We Buy Opportunity" highlights the ways in which poverty is not just a lack of money, but a lack of access to the networks, institutions, and opportunities that are available to those with more resources. By understanding and addressing these structural barriers, we can work towards a more just and equitable society in which everyone has the chance to succeed.
Invest in Ending Poverty
In the chapter eight "Invest in Ending Poverty," Matthew Desmond argues that poverty is not an inevitable fact of life, but a social problem that can be addressed through smart policy choices and investments.
Desmond suggests that there are four key areas in which we can invest to help end poverty: jobs, education, housing, and social supports.
Regarding jobs, Desmond suggests that we need to invest in creating more good-paying jobs, especially in areas that have been hard hit by deindustrialization and economic dislocation.
He also argues that we need to invest in improving job quality, including better wages, benefits, and working conditions, to ensure that all workers are able to support themselves and their families.
When it comes to education, Desmond suggests that we need to invest in early childhood education, high-quality K-12 schools, and access to affordable higher education, to help all children reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.
He also emphasizes the need to address the racial and socioeconomic segregation that often limits educational opportunities for children from low-income families.
In terms of housing, Desmond argues that we need to invest in creating more affordable and stable housing options, especially in areas with high levels of poverty and housing insecurity.
He also suggests that we need to address the systemic discrimination and segregation that perpetuates housing inequality and limits access to safe and healthy homes.
Finally, Desmond emphasizes the need to invest in social supports, including healthcare, childcare, and nutrition assistance, to help families meet their basic needs and thrive.
He argues that these social supports are not just a safety net for the poor, but an investment in the future of our society, as healthy, well-nourished children are more likely to grow up to be productive and successful adults.
In conclusion, Desmond's chapter "Invest in Ending Poverty" highlights the importance of investing in policies and programs that can help lift people out of poverty and create a more equitable and just society. By focusing on creating good jobs, improving education, expanding access to affordable housing, and providing robust social supports, we can work towards a future where poverty is no longer a barrier to opportunity and success.
Empower the Poor
In the chapter nine "Empower the Poor," Matthew Desmond argues that we need to shift our focus from simply helping the poor to empowering them to take control of their own lives and futures.
Desmond suggests that there are several ways in which we can empower the poor, including expanding access to education, increasing political participation, and providing opportunities for entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Regarding education, Desmond argues that we need to invest in programs that can help low-income students overcome the obstacles that often limit their educational opportunities, such as poor-quality schools, lack of access to resources, and limited family support.
He also suggests that we need to address the root causes of educational inequality, such as poverty and segregation, in order to create a more level playing field for all students.
When it comes to political participation, Desmond argues that we need to empower the poor to become active and engaged citizens, by expanding access to voting rights, increasing representation in government, and supporting grassroots organizing efforts.
He also suggests that we need to address the systemic barriers that often limit the political power of low-income communities, such as gerrymandering, voter suppression, and the influence of money in politics.
In terms of entrepreneurship and self-employment, Desmond argues that we need to create more opportunities for low-income individuals to start their own businesses and build their own economic security.
He suggests that we can do this by investing in programs that provide access to capital, training, and mentorship, as well as by addressing the structural barriers that often limit entrepreneurship in low-income communities, such as lack of access to affordable credit and discriminatory lending practices.
Desmond also emphasizes the importance of providing resources and support for individuals who are struggling with addiction, mental health challenges, or other barriers that may prevent them from fully realizing their potential.
In conclusion, Desmond's chapter "Empower the Poor" highlights the importance of shifting our focus from charity and assistance to empowerment and opportunity, in order to create a more just and equitable society. By expanding access to education, increasing political participation, and supporting entrepreneurship and self-employment, we can help lift people out of poverty and empower them to take control of their own lives and futures.
Tear Down the Walls
In the chapter ten "Tear Down the Walls," Matthew Desmond argues that the physical and social walls that separate communities of different socioeconomic backgrounds are a major obstacle to addressing poverty in America.
Desmond suggests that these walls take many forms, including geographic segregation, zoning laws that limit affordable housing, and cultural norms that reinforce class divisions.
He argues that these walls not only limit opportunities for low-income individuals and families, but also contribute to a sense of social isolation and a lack of empathy and understanding across different socioeconomic groups.
One way to tear down these walls, Desmond suggests, is to create more diverse and inclusive communities, by investing in affordable housing options that are integrated into neighborhoods with a mix of incomes, races, and backgrounds.
He also emphasizes the need to address the systemic barriers that often limit access to affordable housing, such as exclusionary zoning laws and discriminatory lending practices.
Desmond argues that we need to change our cultural norms around poverty and social class, in order to create a more empathetic and understanding society.
This can involve promoting greater social and economic mobility, creating more opportunities for people to interact across different socioeconomic backgrounds, and challenging stereotypes and stigmas that often contribute to the walls between communities.
Another way to tear down the walls, Desmond suggests, is to invest in public transportation and infrastructure that can connect low-income communities with job opportunities, education, and other resources.
He argues that these investments can help to break down the physical barriers that often separate communities, and create more opportunities for people to interact and build relationships across socioeconomic lines.
In conclusion, Desmond's chapter "Tear Down the Walls" highlights the importance of addressing the physical and social barriers that often separate communities of different socioeconomic backgrounds, in order to create a more inclusive and equitable society. By investing in affordable housing, promoting social and economic mobility, and creating more opportunities for interaction and connection across different socioeconomic groups, we can work towards a future where poverty is no longer a barrier to opportunity and success.
Epilogue
In the "Epilogue" of his book "Poverty, by America," Matthew Desmond reflects on the challenges of addressing poverty in America and offers some thoughts on the path forward.
He notes that poverty is not just an economic problem, but also a social and moral one, and that addressing it requires a comprehensive approach that takes into account the structural barriers that limit opportunities for low-income individuals and families.
Desmond argues that we need to move beyond charity and assistance, and towards empowerment and opportunity, by investing in education, affordable housing, and economic mobility.
He also suggests that we need to address the root causes of poverty, such as racism, discrimination, and economic inequality, in order to create a more just and equitable society.
Desmond emphasizes the importance of listening to the voices and experiences of those who are directly impacted by poverty, and involving them in the solutions.
He notes that poverty is often accompanied by a sense of social isolation and a lack of community, and that creating more inclusive and connected communities is an important part of addressing poverty.
Desmond also suggests that we need to challenge the negative stereotypes and stigmas that often contribute to the marginalization of low-income individuals and communities.
He argues that we need to reframe the conversation around poverty, from one focused on individual responsibility to one that recognizes the structural barriers and systemic inequalities that contribute to poverty.
Desmond highlights the importance of political engagement and activism in addressing poverty, and suggests that we need to hold our elected officials accountable for creating policies that promote economic and social justice.
In conclusion, Desmond's "Epilogue" offers a call to action for addressing poverty in America, by recognizing it as a complex and multi-faceted issue that requires a comprehensive and empathetic response. By listening to the voices of those impacted by poverty, investing in education and economic mobility, and challenging the structural barriers and negative stereotypes that contribute to poverty, we can work towards a more just and equitable society for all.
ChatGPT explain why this book is important.
Me - ChatGPT thanks again. This small book is new but it already has a
summary book written by a diffrent author and yet another author has a
workbook on it; I am trying to learn why this small book is so
important.
ChatGPT - There are several reasons why "Poverty, by America" by Matthew
Desmond is an important book:
It provides a comprehensive and empathetic exploration of poverty in America, drawing on the author's extensive research and personal experience.
The book challenges common stereotypes and misconceptions about poverty, and emphasizes the structural and systemic barriers that contribute to its persistence.
It highlights the importance of listening to the voices and experiences of those impacted by poverty, and involving them in the solutions.
The book offers a call to action for addressing poverty in America, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and empathetic responses that address the root causes of poverty.
Desmond's writing is engaging and accessible, making the book accessible to a wide audience and helping to raise awareness about the issue of poverty.
The fact that the book has already inspired summary and workbook editions speaks to its impact and relevance. Summaries can be a helpful tool for those who may not have the time or resources to read the full book, but still want to learn about its key ideas and insights. Workbooks can be useful for individuals or groups who want to engage more deeply with the book's themes and ideas, and apply them to their own lives or communities.
Overall, "Poverty, by America" is an important book because it provides a powerful and nuanced exploration of poverty in America, and offers a call to action for addressing this critical issue.
Poverty, By America by Matthew Desmond review – how the rich keep the poor down
https://www.theguardian.com/books/2023/mar/22/poverty-by-america-by-matthew-desmond-review-how-the-rich-keep-the-poor-down
'Poverty, By America' shows how the rest of us benefit by keeping others poor
https://www.npr.org/2023/03/17/1158230630/poverty-by-america-book-review-matthew-desmond-evicted
Review: 'Poverty, By America,' by Matthew Desmond
https://www.startribune.com/review-poverty-by-america-by-matthew-desmond/600259688/
Poverty, by America
https://philanthropynewsdigest.org/features/book-reviews/poverty-by-america
How America Manufactures Poverty The sociologist Matthew Desmond identifies specific practices and policies that consign tens of millions to destitution.
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/03/20/matthew-desmond-poverty-by-america-book-review
