Learning Objectives

  • Explain how poverty, class, and inequality are social constructions.
  • Discuss patterns and trends in defining and measuring poverty.
  • Describe social class and mobility.
  • Discuss income, wealth, and other dimensions of inequality.
  • Apply the functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist perspectives to the problems of poverty, class, and inequality.
  • Apply specialized theories to poverty and inequality.
  • Identify steps toward social change in regard to poverty.