Define the ways in which sociologists have defined and measured Poverty and Wealth.
When discussing poverty, we soon become aware that it is indeed a difficult thing to measure. Although difficult, it can still be measured. There are a few ways to define poverty. Absolute poverty is a food-based measurement that defines poverty as the “point at which a household’s income falls below the necessary level to purchase food to physically sustain its members.” Poverty is generally thought to be associated with the inability to meet the basic needs of life; however, the definition of these “basic needs” is socially constructed and, therefore, varies widely internationally. Many people, therefore, may turn to relative poverty for what they may consider a more accurate measure of poverty. The definition of poverty in this case is based on “a percentage of the median income” in a given area.
When discussing absolute poverty, we quickly learn that what is seen as poverty changes over time. In 1899, sociologist Rowntree, categorised poverty into 2 sections, Primary and Secondary. He said primary meant not having enough money coming in each week to live a normal, healthy life, even if every penny is well spent. There was then secondary, this was when selected citizens had earnings that were sufficient, but spent it on unnecessary items, such as alcohol and drugs, leaving them in poverty. When comparing this to the evaluation given in 2003 by Gordon and Townsend, we see the stark contrast between the definitions and how the definition has changed over time.
They said that those deprived of 2 or more of the 7 listed, are in “absolute poverty”:
-Clean water -Information -Health
-Sanitation -Food
-Shelter -Education
There are also various strengths and weaknesses of trying to define relative poverty. Various strengths include the fact it allows us to think how