The evolution of the concept of poverty: a diachronic analysis
The evolution of the concept of poverty: a diachronic analysis

Summary/Abstract: Anyone who has studied poverty cannot help but be struck by the importance of family and community as enduring resources for those in need. Poverty is a perennial problem in world history, but over time its causes have shifted from local issues like natural disasters or warfare to more global economic issues which impact on available resources, systems of distribution and potential solutions. This paper focuses upon the period from around 1500 onward when poverty became a global issue, and uses the process of globalization as the chief lens through which to study and understand poverty in world history. The result is an examination of changing attitudes toward poverty and poor relief throughout centuries.

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