Definitions of poverty

Question 1

Absolute poverty

Answer 1

Where somebody lacks the basic physical needs and necessities to live
Eg food, warmth, shelter
Measured using income level, is someone has insufficient funds to live they’re living in absolute poverty
Called budget standard measurement

Question 2

Absolute poverty: strengths and weaknesses

Answer 2

Scientific and objective, can’t be argued with as the conditions some are living in (homeless) are evident and clear
Definition is a fixed and universal so poverty can be compared throughout the years

Doesn’t always take into consideration that the needs of people are always changing
Not always reliable to use when measuring poverty

Question 3

Relative poverty

Answer 3

Unable to interact with society and cannot afford the extras for participation
Eg not being able to afford a TV may make you feel socially excluded
Measured using deprivation index and income level
Index is a list of items that are needed for participation in society
Income level, household income less than 60% of national median level they’re living in relative poverty

Question 4

Relative poverty: strengths and weaknesses

Answer 4

Takes into consideration the cultural needs of society and the dynamic nature of poverty
If one doesn’t have access to education, healthcare or media they’re lacking necessities of an average society

If relative poverty continues to be used there will always be families or people living in relative poverty die to changing needs in society