Can We Truly Build a Country Where No One is Poor?

It is a noble goal to strive towards a world where no one is impoverished. However, the reality is more complex and multifaceted than often portrayed. This article explores the challenges and realities behind the notion of eradicating poverty, focusing on the two primary forms of poverty: absolute poverty and relative poverty.

The Dichotomy of Poverty

First, it is crucial to understand the distinction between these two forms of poverty. There are two primary types of poverty:

Absolute Poverty: When individuals do not have sufficient resources to meet their basic needs for survival, such as food, healthcare, and education. Relative Poverty: This is the perception that one is worse off compared to others in their society, regardless of whether they meet the economic threshold for basic needs.

Absolute Poverty: A More Tangible Challenge

Absolute poverty is a more tangible form of poverty, defined as living on less than the minimum income threshold required for a decent standard of living. This form of poverty is primarily found in developing and underdeveloped countries. Governments often establish a Poverty Line, which is the bare minimum income needed to cover essential expenses.

The Role of Government and Economic Development

Absolute poverty can be reduced or eliminated through effective government policies, rapid economic growth, and a proactive mindset among the populace. By implementing smart policies, fostering economic development, and encouraging productivity, it is possible to lift a significant portion of the population out of extreme poverty. This requires sustained efforts over generations, as changes can take time to manifest.

Relative Poverty: An Inherent Social Construct

Relative poverty, in contrast, is a more complex and elusive concept. Even when everyone in a society's population exceeds the poverty line, those at the bottom of the income or wealth distribution may still feel impoverished. This feeling is often exacerbated by exposure to the lifestyles, hobbies, and jobs of higher earners, leading to a sense of inferiority and inadequacy.

The Unchanging Nature of Relative Poverty

According to Swapnil Kabra, an expert in the field of poverty studies, relative poverty is a psychological and societal construct that is inherent in any stratified society. Despite the eradication of absolute poverty, the stark contrast in lifestyles and opportunities can create a culture of relative poverty that is difficult to overcome.

Relative poverty is a feeling of being poor even if you're above the poverty line. It is a psychological effect, and it is here to stay. - Swapnil Kabra

Challenges and Realities

The eradication of poverty is a monumental task that requires both practical and psychological approaches. While absolute poverty can be addressed through tangible measures such as economic development and social policies, relative poverty is a more ingrained social issue that is resistant to change.

In conclusion, while we can strive to address and alleviate absolute poverty, the challenge of relative poverty remains a significant barrier. Building a society where no one is poor requires a nuanced understanding of these different forms of poverty and the commitment to address them in a multifaceted manner.

Keywords: poverty elimination, absolute poverty, relative poverty