Question

Globally speaking, what is the difference between relative and absolute poverty? Our text discusses poverty as it pertains to women and children. What are the main points of this discussion? Why do analysts claim that economic development in low income countries depends on raising the social standing of women

Answer 1

Globally speaking, what is the difference between relative and absolute poverty? Why do analysts claim that economic development in low income countries depends on raising the social standing of women

Absolute poverty refers to poverty when a person would not be able to afford the basic units of subsistence, when the person would be insufficient to provide for themselves or their family. This is in relation to the poverty level as decided by the United Nations, while measuring absolute poverty, income as well food levels. Absolute poverty is the threshold as identified when a person is living below the poverty level. This would be consistent throughout countries and will not be varying depending on the particular country.

Relative poverty is with respect to a particular country. Relative deprivation is in relation to the poverty level of people with deprivation levels as decided by a particular country. A person who is poor in one country may be rich in another country. Relative poverty is set by the country provided by the various agencies. For example, a person who is relatively poor in the US may be rich in another country.

Why do analysts claim that economic development in low income countries depends on raising the social standing of women

Gender development has turned out to be one of the most influential factors that contribute in economic development. Women comprise almost 50% of the population. Hence, in order for a population to progress, it would not be correct that only the males are progressing and the females turn out to be deprived. Hence, countries where both males as well as females are progressing at equal or almost equal levels as the males, are listed in the developed countries.