Beth Clark
Book Review by MacKenzie Nelson
Impact Central Illinois Member and
#1 International Best-Selling Author/ Podcast Host
A Framework for Understanding Poverty: A Cognitive Approach by Ruby K. Pain, Ph.D.
This fascinating book expands and gives us an updated approach since the original “red book”, A Framework for Understanding Poverty was published in 1995. Poverty is defined as “the extent to which an individual does without resources” and the author, Ruby K. Pain, is sharp to point out that the term resources (in regards to poverty) are multifaceted and not only limited to financial ones. Ruby thoughtfully lends an in-depth view to the lives of society spanning across several geographical locations, ages, and social classes by sharing specific case studies. The reader becomes immersed in the personal circumstances of each case, and can better grasp the scope of how several key factors introduced by the author play a varying degree of roles that culminate to deeply impact society at individual levels. Utilizing graphs, charts, and statistics effectively to orchestrate how different factors contribute to poverty, the author incorporates and illuminates many key concepts that are the persuading gateway to spark more empathy and compassion from the reader, and in turn, expose the reader to new perspectives that had not been previously considered or explored in regards to poverty. “It is the responsibility of educators and others who work with the poor to teach the differences and skills/rules that will allow each individual to make the choice. As things now stand for many of those in poverty, the choice never exists,” she plainly states. While crisply and concisely making a plea that there is much more that we as a society to could be doing at an individual level, Ruby simultaneously recognizes that a part of the issue regarding poverty is educating our society as a whole and effectively communicates this by presenting solutions stemming mainly from relationships and personal interactions. She writes “The key to achievement for students from poverty is creating relationships with them.” Ruby reminds us all that having an open heart, being willing to meet others in their circumstances free of judgment and bias, and reading books such as hers will enrich and help not only us, but will continue to inspire us to be generous with our skillsets, time, and towards offering help to others in need as well. Human connection can transcend class, and when we believe this and grasp this concept individually, we can shift and change the stronghold of poverty on our society one person at a time.
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03/07/2023 11:35am Last year, the Beyond Giving Committee held a Poverty Simulation on April 9, 2022. This book "A Framework for Understanding Poverty" was suggested as a great followup book to read. On April 22, 2022 Annie Bell lead a discussion about this book. Sixteen Impact members gathered to discuss this book and it was an eye opening experience for me. When our new portal opened and offered a platform for Book Reviews, I wanted to start with this book because it was so enlightening to many of us who had little knowledge about poverty. In keeping with our mission - to cultivate the collective wisdom and strength of women to transform ourselves and our communities - I can't recommend this book more. Once you've read it, feel free to add your comments to this BLOG. Beth Clark |
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03/09/2023 11:39am I agree, this book is full of practical tips for understanding the unconscious mindsets we all have based on our personal life experiences within every social class. One of the most important things to note is that resources go far beyond just financial. Emotional resources are another huge factor in how one handles crises in their lives. The author's website ahaprocess.com offers additional resources as well. |