Income Inequality In The United States

The United States has great natural resources, the most advanced technology, and a very high standard of living. Despite these advantages, a significant portion of U.S. residents live in a condition of poverty(Eitzen, Zinn, Smith 156). These people are living with inadequate food, shelter, and water. Many of these citizens are discriminated against in schools, courts, and in the job market. These conditions make it difficult to work their way out of poverty. In order to be considered poor, a citizen must be below the poverty line. The poverty line is based on the minimal amount of money required to live. “The average poverty thresholds are $11,139 for one person, $17,374 for a family of three, and $22,319 for a family of four. Based off of
Ten million blacks are in poverty and they hold the highest percentage of those in poverty. “African American households have an annual income of $32,068 compared to non-Hispanic White households who have an annual income of $54,620”(Eitzen, Zinn, Smith 158). These facts show the truth behind income inequality. It is easier for white men to hold higher paid jobs than African Americans. Woman and children under the age of 18 also have very high numbers below the poverty
The first blames the poor. It states that the poor are in that condition because of a deficiency. The other blames society. British philosopher and sociologist Herbert Spencer argues that the poor were poor because they were unfit. He believes that as societies evolve, the strong will flourish and the weak will eventually die out(Eitzen, Zinn, Smith 168). Our government does not want anyone to “die out”; therefore, they do what they can to help. Society and the inequality that come with it may also be a reason for poverty. Society continues to be sexist and racist, which makes it tough for those being discriminated against. There are numerous causes including a lack of individual responsibility, bad government policy, exploitation of people and businesses with power and influence, or some combination of these and other factors(Shah). The Americans that are suffering from poverty are at a higher risk of family problems, health problems, and problems in school. These problems can be life threatening and keep the poor from working their way out of poverty. Children in poverty are less likely to succeed in school and in the workforce. Poverty can be stopped as long as we work together as a