Essay Problem
First, how does the federal government determine the poverty line, and what are the social and political ramifications of this definition? (In other words, what specific formula does the U.S. government use to determine poverty, and what are the consequences of this formula for politicians and for poor people?)
Next, what is a "poverty rate?" Explain what the current poverty rate is in the United States, and describe how it varies by age and race/ethnicity. What do you think it means that some groups, over time, have higher rates of poverty than others? What can this teach you about our society? Be sure that you use a sociological perspective to these last two questions!
The response should include a reference list. One-inch margins, Using Times New Roman 12 pnt font, double-space and APA style of writing and citations.