10 Definition of Poverty

Poverty has been defined in multiple ways by scholars, reflecting its multidimensional nature. Early definitions, like Rowntree (1901), focused on the lack of sufficient income to meet basic physical needs, while Ravallion (1992) and the World Bank (1990, 2001) emphasized low income, consumption deficits, and deprivation of essential services. Townsend (1979) and Bradshaw (2007) highlighted the social aspect, defining poverty as the inability to attain standards of living customary in society. Sen (1981, 1995, 1999) and Dreze stressed poverty as the deprivation of capabilities, choices, and opportunities for a tolerable life, rather than just material insufficiency. Chambers (1983, 1995) added dimensions of vulnerability, powerlessness, and isolation, while Gordon (1996) focused on social participation. Collectively, these definitions portray poverty as a complex condition involving material lack, social exclusion, limited capabilities, and diminished agency.

·      World Bank (1990)

“Poverty is pronounced deprivation in well-being, encompassing low income, lack of basic services, poor health, limited education, and lack of access to resources.”

·      Sen, Amartya (1981, 1999)

“Poverty is the deprivation of basic capabilities rather than merely low income.”

·      Townsend, Peter (1979)

“Individuals, families, and groups in the population can be said to be in poverty when they lack the resources to obtain the types of diet, participate in the activities, and have the living conditions which are customary in the society.”

·      Chambers, Robert (1983, 1995)

“Poverty is not just a lack of income, but vulnerability, powerlessness, and voicelessness, often accompanied by physical weakness and isolation.”

·      Bradshaw, Jonathan (2007)

“Poverty is a socially defined concept that denotes the inability to obtain the minimum acceptable standard of living in a given society.”

·      Ravallion, Martin (1992, 1998)

“Poverty is the inability to attain a minimal standard of living, typically measured by consumption or income.”

·      Rowntree, Seebohm (1901)

“Poverty is the condition of not having sufficient means to maintain the minimum physical requirements for healthy life.”

·      Gordon, David (1996)

“Poverty is the inability to participate fully in the society in which one lives, due to a lack of resources.”

·      World Bank (2001, World Development Report)

“Poverty is hunger, lack of shelter, being sick and not being able to see a doctor, not knowing how to read, not having access to school or information, not having a job, fear for the future, powerlessness, and lack of representation and freedom.”

·      Sen, Amartya & Dreze (1995)

“Poverty is the denial of choices and opportunities for a tolerable life.”

Effects of Poverty

Poverty: Definition and Causes