Poverty and Public Policy
This course will explore the nature, extent, demographics, and causes of contemporary poverty, as well as the major policy and program responses to poverty. The course will begin by considering competing definitions of poverty. It will then explore the composition of the poor, the dynamics of poverty, trends over time and major explanations for poverty in our affluent nation. Finally, the course will examine the various programs and policies meant to alleviate poverty and its consequences, such as government transfer programs, education and training programs, support services, and community and neighborhood development, and education reform strategies. (SOAN 0103 or SOAN 0105 or any SOAN 0200-level or any SOAN 0300-level course.) 3 hrs. sem. (Sociology)