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Poverty and Power: The Problem of Structural Inequality
Poverty and Power suggests that today's poverty results from deep-rooted disparities in income, wealth, and power. The rate and severity of poverty remain high, because millions of Americans are trapped in low-wage jobs, inadequately served by government policy, excluded from mainstream policy debates, and vitimized by discrimination and social exculsion.
614 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
November 23, 2015
A text book, but an interesting read if you want something that honestly looks at poverty in the US. As the title notes, poverty and power. People in the US are poor because they lack economic, political and social power. Instead, the media blames them for their situations while ignoring the fact that in this new global economy, we do not have enough decent jobs and we also do not have social programs to genuinely help people change their lives. Looking at poverty in general, Boyce challenges many of the views we hear from many of the people running for political office.
November 26, 2017
A common method used to vilify the poor is by painting them as a homogeneous mass of stupid, self-destructive layabouts. While it’s not uncommon for people in my home country to characterise welfare recipients as ‘dole bludgers’, this kind of rhetoric seems even more prominent in the United States, especially where the mainstream media is concerned.
Royce challenges this way of thinking in his book. He asserts that poverty is largely a function of power and a by-product of social organisation and uses extensive research to prove that this is not just some feel-good leftist fiction. To this effect, he spends the first half of the book dismantling the specious theories that have been used to justify poverty, and the next half of the book outlining the systematic causes of poverty as well as the various obstacles that the poor face.
Certain people explain poverty as the result of low intelligence or bad cultural values or a lack of in-demand skills, but Royce shows that these explanations are highly suspect. He demonstrates that cognitive ability, even in tandem with education, only accounts for a 33% variance in wages; and that most studies show how a lack of opportunities result in the poor leading unconventional lives and their inability to obtain 'in-demand skills'.
But Royce’s book is not just an amalgamation of compelling data, but a testament to clear thinking. He is an academic who is extremely capable of turning assumptions upside down. He poses that an abundance of overqualified workers suggests a lack of good jobs instead of skilled employees; and he asks why so many people push moral reform for the least powerful instead of the most powerful. After all, doesn’t it follow that those with the most power would be able to exert the most influence on society? Why should anyone chastise the poor as parasites when their impact is so marginal?
Of course, Royce’s diagnosis of the actual causes will not shock many left-wing readers, but it is rare to see a writer analyse these causes in such detail. He cites the growing imbalance between business and labour, the political institutions that favour the rich over the impoverished, the winner-takes-all electoral system that silences minority parties who could provide a voice for the poor and the hostile mainstream media. And given the wealth of evidence he provides, it is hard to argue with him.
However, Royce also provides some suggestions via policy and activism that might serve as solutions to the maladies affecting the poor. The book does well to end on such an affirmative note, as, despite the seriousness of the subject matter, it is neither depressing or dry. The book is not weighed down by academese, despite being written at a college undergraduate level, and overall it is immensely readable. Highly recommended for anyone with a passing interest in fighting for a better world.
Royce challenges this way of thinking in his book. He asserts that poverty is largely a function of power and a by-product of social organisation and uses extensive research to prove that this is not just some feel-good leftist fiction. To this effect, he spends the first half of the book dismantling the specious theories that have been used to justify poverty, and the next half of the book outlining the systematic causes of poverty as well as the various obstacles that the poor face.
Certain people explain poverty as the result of low intelligence or bad cultural values or a lack of in-demand skills, but Royce shows that these explanations are highly suspect. He demonstrates that cognitive ability, even in tandem with education, only accounts for a 33% variance in wages; and that most studies show how a lack of opportunities result in the poor leading unconventional lives and their inability to obtain 'in-demand skills'.
But Royce’s book is not just an amalgamation of compelling data, but a testament to clear thinking. He is an academic who is extremely capable of turning assumptions upside down. He poses that an abundance of overqualified workers suggests a lack of good jobs instead of skilled employees; and he asks why so many people push moral reform for the least powerful instead of the most powerful. After all, doesn’t it follow that those with the most power would be able to exert the most influence on society? Why should anyone chastise the poor as parasites when their impact is so marginal?
Of course, Royce’s diagnosis of the actual causes will not shock many left-wing readers, but it is rare to see a writer analyse these causes in such detail. He cites the growing imbalance between business and labour, the political institutions that favour the rich over the impoverished, the winner-takes-all electoral system that silences minority parties who could provide a voice for the poor and the hostile mainstream media. And given the wealth of evidence he provides, it is hard to argue with him.
However, Royce also provides some suggestions via policy and activism that might serve as solutions to the maladies affecting the poor. The book does well to end on such an affirmative note, as, despite the seriousness of the subject matter, it is neither depressing or dry. The book is not weighed down by academese, despite being written at a college undergraduate level, and overall it is immensely readable. Highly recommended for anyone with a passing interest in fighting for a better world.
October 14, 2016
Royce was refreshing, particularly as the media is currently saturated with propaganda which blames the “lazy” individuals who “mooch” off programs like welfare, or who are arguing to increase the minimum wage to a more-livable $15 per hour, or the “99%” who are fighting to redistribute the wealth of our nation. Because I gave up the news years ago after realizing their fear-based focus, I laughed out loud when I read Paul Ryan’s plan for helping the poor “make better life decisions” (5), as if it’s just that simple. It’s truly surprising his policies didn’t take right off. I was shocked to learn that 15% of our nation is below the poverty line (6), and worst yet, 44% of that 15% are extremely poor (9). I felt very fortunate as an unmarried person with no children, and I have no idea how those with larger families or additional complications survive. I learned that there is no war on poverty, but there is only a “war on the poor” because of Tea Party lobbyists who take more and more away from those who truly need it (13). I was reminded of the many documentaries I’ve watched about the wealthiest families who are in charge of our nation which is frightening as we approach an election including candidates who may have been “selected rather than elected”. This was an interesting introduction that left me hopeless and wondering what we can do about this problem aside from being aware, while feeling grateful and privileged that I have had opportunities I previously took for granted.
August 10, 2015
Poverty is not a personal failing but rather the result of structural inequality.
January 15, 2018
Very well written and sourced analysis of the individualistic and structural approach towards poverty. Mainly in the USA but it is also comparing against other developed countries. If you are interested in poverty in developed world and its reasons and possible countermeasures, this book does provide some answers.
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November 27, 2023"Poverty and Power: The Problem of Structural Inequality" by Edward Royce is an enlightening and thought-provoking exploration of the deeply entrenched issue of inequality in modern society. As someone who is continually seeking a deeper understanding of the social challenges facing our world, I found Royce's book to be both insightful and profoundly impactful. It offers a comprehensive analysis of the systemic factors that contribute to poverty and inequality, making it an essential read for anyone interested in social justice and policy reform.
Royce’s approach to the subject is thorough and well-researched, providing a detailed examination of the various dimensions of structural inequality. His ability to dissect complex economic and social systems and explain them in an accessible manner is commendable. The book delves into the historical and contemporary factors that have shaped the current landscape of inequality, including economic policies, labor markets, and social discrimination. This multi-faceted exploration provides a holistic view of the challenges and underscores the need for comprehensive solutions.
One of the key strengths of "Poverty and Power" is its focus on the human impact of structural inequality. Royce goes beyond statistics and theories to examine how real people’s lives are affected by these systemic issues. This human-centric approach adds a powerful emotional layer to the book, making the case for change not just a logical argument but also a moral imperative.
Moreover, Royce doesn’t just identify problems; he also proposes potential solutions and policy recommendations. This forward-looking perspective is crucial for turning analysis into action. His suggestions for reform are both practical and ambitious, offering a roadmap for policymakers, activists, and concerned citizens to tackle these entrenched issues.
Throughout the book, Royce maintains an engaging and compelling narrative. His passion for the subject is evident, and it helps to draw the reader into what could otherwise be a dense and challenging topic. His writing style strikes the right balance between academic rigor and readability, making the book suitable for both scholars and lay readers.
In conclusion, "Poverty and Power: The Problem of Structural Inequality" by Edward Royce is a remarkable and important book. It sheds light on the complex and often hidden mechanisms that perpetuate poverty and inequality in society. Royce’s comprehensive analysis, combined with his focus on human stories and practical solutions, makes this book not only an enlightening read but also a call to action. It is a significant contribution to the discourse on social inequality and a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand and address one of the most pressing issues of our time.
Royce’s approach to the subject is thorough and well-researched, providing a detailed examination of the various dimensions of structural inequality. His ability to dissect complex economic and social systems and explain them in an accessible manner is commendable. The book delves into the historical and contemporary factors that have shaped the current landscape of inequality, including economic policies, labor markets, and social discrimination. This multi-faceted exploration provides a holistic view of the challenges and underscores the need for comprehensive solutions.
One of the key strengths of "Poverty and Power" is its focus on the human impact of structural inequality. Royce goes beyond statistics and theories to examine how real people’s lives are affected by these systemic issues. This human-centric approach adds a powerful emotional layer to the book, making the case for change not just a logical argument but also a moral imperative.
Moreover, Royce doesn’t just identify problems; he also proposes potential solutions and policy recommendations. This forward-looking perspective is crucial for turning analysis into action. His suggestions for reform are both practical and ambitious, offering a roadmap for policymakers, activists, and concerned citizens to tackle these entrenched issues.
Throughout the book, Royce maintains an engaging and compelling narrative. His passion for the subject is evident, and it helps to draw the reader into what could otherwise be a dense and challenging topic. His writing style strikes the right balance between academic rigor and readability, making the book suitable for both scholars and lay readers.
In conclusion, "Poverty and Power: The Problem of Structural Inequality" by Edward Royce is a remarkable and important book. It sheds light on the complex and often hidden mechanisms that perpetuate poverty and inequality in society. Royce’s comprehensive analysis, combined with his focus on human stories and practical solutions, makes this book not only an enlightening read but also a call to action. It is a significant contribution to the discourse on social inequality and a valuable resource for anyone looking to understand and address one of the most pressing issues of our time.
August 10, 2020
Dense but compelling information on poverty being a multi-faceted structural issue and an issue belonging only to the individuals in poverty. The book focuses on comparing those perspectives, why the individual perspective is insufficient and a structural view is necessary. I feel it does an excellent job on this. Nearing its conclusion does it offer some high-level suggestions on how to go about shifting the manner in which poverty is addressed in America to better alleviate poverty and the balance of power in the nation.
Though it would be nice to know more about how to go about these suggestions, that would have been beyond the scope of the text which was already quite dense. I think the citations are excellent for providing resources to continue learning about any of the points made. Given the scope of the topic and the number of facets to the issue, the focus of the text was admirable.
Though it would be nice to know more about how to go about these suggestions, that would have been beyond the scope of the text which was already quite dense. I think the citations are excellent for providing resources to continue learning about any of the points made. Given the scope of the topic and the number of facets to the issue, the focus of the text was admirable.
July 25, 2020
This is a fantastic and comprehensive introduction to the structural causes of poverty. It focuses more on breadth than depth (hence why I’d it an introduction) but it cites so many sources that it would be a great starting point for deeper digging. I can not recommend it enough.
January 27, 2021
An thoroughly excellent breakdown of the systemic issues facing the under served in our country.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews