Understanding Urban Poverty and the Near Poor

Poverty is often seen as a clear line, but what about those living just above it? Many individuals and families navigate a precarious existence, vulnerable to economic shocks that could push them into poverty. This course introduces you to this often-overlooked group: the near poor. By the end of this course, you will have a solid foundation for understanding the complex dynamics of economic insecurity. You will learn to analyze the social, economic, and policy factors that shape the lives of vulnerable populations, particularly within urban environments, and think critically about potential solutions. What you'll learn: - Define core concepts like poverty, near-poverty, and economic security. - Understand the structural causes of economic instability for households. - Analyze the connection between urban planning decisions and social inequality. - Examine how housing, transportation, and labor policies affect low-income communities. - Explore the impact of the modern gig economy on income stability and worker precarity. - Evaluate various policy approaches designed to improve economic well-being. The course starts with fundamental definitions and theoretical frameworks before progressing to the analysis of specific policies and their real-world effects. You will explore these topics through clear written explanations that build your understanding step by step. This course is designed for beginners with an interest in sociology, urban studies, public policy, or social justice. No prior knowledge or experience is required. Enroll now to begin exploring the critical issues of economic security and urban life.