Poorly Understood

What America Gets Wrong About Poverty

De: Mark Robert Rank, Lawrence M. Eppard, Heather E. Bullock

Narrado por: Laural Merlington

Few topics have as many myths, stereotypes, and misperceptions surrounding them as that of poverty in America. The poor have been badly misunderstood since the beginnings of the country, with the rhetoric only ratcheting up in recent times. Our current era of fake news, alternative facts, and media partisanship has led to a breeding ground for all types of myths and misinformation to gain traction and legitimacy.

Poorly Understood is the first book to systematically address and confront many of the most widespread myths pertaining to poverty. Mark Robert Rank, Lawrence M. Eppard, and Heather E. Bullock powerfully demonstrate that the realities of poverty are much different than the myths. The idealized image of American society is one of abundant opportunities, with hard work being rewarded by economic prosperity. But what if this picture is wrong? What if the reasons for poverty are largely beyond the control of individuals? These are much more disturbing realities to consider because they call into question the very core of America's identity.

Armed with the latest research, Poorly Understood not only challenges the myths of poverty and inequality, but it explains why these myths continue to exist, providing an innovative blueprint for how the nation can move forward to effectively alleviate American poverty.

©2021 Oxford University Press (P)2022 Tantor

Had to read it for class

I mean overall it was very interesting in the lighting but I don’t know. I feel like a lot of it was just kind of common sense. I don’t know I don’t recommend it. It wasn’t very fun.