Poverty, by America

Desmond argues that poverty is not principally a problem of money. What other factors—social, economic, political—affect the poor? What, in your view, is the relationship between these factors and ongoing poverty? Are there other factors Desmond does not address?

Desmond calls for people to “vote with their wallets,” rewarding companies with good labor practices and punishing those with bad ones. In your view, what would an “ethically sound” company in terms of labor practices look like? Do labor practices influence your consumer choices? Why or why not?

Desmond claims that many institutions help perpetuate the problem of poverty. In your view, what role, if any, does the banking system and/or the education system play in perpetuating poverty? In what ways, if any, could these same systems be used to empower the poor?

While Desmond insists that poverty is not just about money, he also floats ideas such as raising the minimum wage or ensuring a basic universal income for all. What is your view of such approaches to ending poverty? Do you think they could be successful? What are the pros and cons of each?

Desmond points out that while Americans have access to a plethora of cheap consumer goods, the necessities of life—housing, food, healthcare, and even education—are getting more and more expensive. If you were a politician, what policies would you propose to make some or all of these necessities more affordable? How do you determine what is or is not a necessity?

Desmond draws some parallels between racial segregation and class segregation. Do you find these parallels convincing? Why or why not? In what ways, if any, does class discrimination differ from other forms of discrimination?

Desmond proposes that social solidarity is one of the keys to ending poverty in America. In your view, what role can communities play in alleviating or ending poverty?

The “American dream” is predicated on the idea that anyone can succeed through merit and hard work, suggesting that social mobility—even out of deep poverty—is possible for all. Do you think the American dream still exists in the contemporary United States? Why or why not?