NEW RIGHT EXPLANATIONS FOR POVERTY

Question 1

Give three features of the underclass according to Murray

Answer 1

High levels of illegitimacy
Drunkenness
Crime drug abuse and fraud

Question 2

Outline marslands concept of the dependency culture

Answer 2

Claims the generosity of the welfare state creates a dependency culture whereby people become dependent on handouts and claims that universal welfare benefits should be replaced by means tested benefits targeted at those who genuinely need them

Question 3

Outline the three features which are passed on through generations which sustain poverty according to Lewis

Answer 3

Resignation - making little effort to change their situation or not taking opportunities to escape poverty when they arise
Fatalism - a view that nothing can be done to change their situation
Marginalisation - not identifying themes levels as part of mainstream society

Question 4

Give 2 criticisms of the new right view on poverty

Answer 4

It is a victim blaming approach and ignores the real structural causes of poverty in society such as unemployment

Scandavian countries have a generous welfare state and as a result have minimal poverty