Poverty: A Study/Action Guide

Publisher:  Anti-Poverty Committee of St.Catharines Zone, Niagara Presbytery, Toronto
Year Published:  1978   First Published:  1978
Resource Type:  Book
Cx Number:  CX791

Abstract:  "poverty" is a workbook designed for small groups interested in becoming more informed and involved in the struggle of the economically poor to dig their way out. It tries to put a common face on poverty through examples as well as present the Christian case for concern."
Income distribution is, throughout , seen as central to an economy of poverty, Thus the book spends many pages examining the present systems of income redistribution, both practiced (welfare) and proposed (Guaranteed Annual Income). Beyond these two measures the guide also examines more basic measures for income redistribution such as full employment and guaranteed job. It concludes with many practical suggestions for action and a large bibliography.
While not proposing any solutions and leaving each group free to draw its own conclusion, the guide does attempt to provide information about who the poor are, how they get trapped in their poverty, and some of the hardships they must endure. This is intended to assist amore informed plan of action. It is clear from the examination of present systems of transfer payments that income has not been redistributed by our social securities. The Guaranteed Annual income is shown to be a workable alternative though insufficient by itself. One section of the book examines the question of how much is enough: for the poor, for everyone, The guide does not emphasize analysis of the Source of income as significant element of the problem of poverty or its solution. It is not a workbook primarily directed for the use of the poor themselves.

Subject Headings

• Poverty