Understanding Poverty and Inequality

1. Which of the following best describes income inequality?

• A) A situation where everyone earns the same income.

• B) The unequal distribution of income within a society.

• C) A measure of how many people are unemployed.

• D) The concept that wealth and income are always fairly distributed.

2. What is a common consequence of high income inequality in a society?

• A) Increased social mobility.

• B) Greater economic stability.

• C) Higher levels of poverty and social unrest.

• D) Equal access to education and healthcare.

3. Which policy is often suggested to reduce income inequality?

• A) Reducing taxes on the wealthy.

• B) Implementing a progressive tax system.

• C) Eliminating social welfare programs.

• D) Increasing interest rates.

4. 4. What is the term “underclass” commonly used to describe?

• A) A group of people living outside of traditional economic and social systems.

• B) The middle class.

• C) Wealthy individuals who hide their wealth.

• D) People who work in high-income professions.

5. Which of the following is an example of a structural factor contributing to poverty?

• A) Lack of motivation.

• B) Low individual ambition.

• C) Inadequate access to education and healthcare.

• D) Personal spending habits.

6. In media and political discourse, who are often considered the “deserving poor”?

• A) Individuals who are employed full-time.

• B) People who are seen as responsible for their own poverty.

• C) People who are considered unable to work due to age, disability, or other factors.

• D) Wealthy individuals who pay high taxes.

7. What is a common stereotype of poverty often seen in the media?

• A) People in poverty are hardworking and resourceful.

• B) People in poverty are lazy and responsible for their situation.

• C) People in poverty are always given opportunities to succeed.

• D) Poverty is always a result of external, uncontrollable factors.

8. What is a potential impact of media portrayal of poverty on public perception?

• A) It encourages empathy and understanding towards those in poverty.

• B) It reinforces negative stereotypes and biases.

• C) It has no impact on public perception.

• D) It always leads to policy changes to address poverty.

9. Which of the following is often a barrier to escaping poverty?

• A) Access to high-quality education.

• B) Availability of well-paying jobs.

• C) Systemic discrimination and lack of opportunities.

• D) Strong social support networks.

10. Why is it important to think sociologically about poverty?

• A) To understand that poverty is only an individual problem.

• B) To identify the wider societal and structural factors that contribute to poverty.

• C) To ignore poverty and focus on wealth.

• D) To reduce funding for social programs.