Why Are Most People on Earth Poor? Social or Economic Phenomenon? Or Both?

First: Historical Roots of Poverty

To understand poverty today, we need to trace its historical roots:

1. Poverty in Ancient Times

• Social class divisions were prominent in early agricultural societies, where wealth was concentrated in the hands of landowners.
• The Industrial Revolution increased productivity but widened the gap between rich and poor, reinforcing relative poverty.

2. Colonialism and Its Impact on Developing Countries

• Colonial powers exploited the natural resources of colonized countries, leaving them economically dependent.
• Infrastructure in these countries was designed to serve colonial interests, making it unsuitable for local development.

---

Second: Economic Causes of Poverty in Greater Detail

1. The Global Economic System

• Global Capitalism: Wealth has become concentrated in the hands of large corporations and wealthy individuals at the expense of the lower classes.
• Unequal Trade Exchange: Developing countries sell raw materials at low prices and buy manufactured goods at high prices.

2. Lack of Fair Taxation

• In many countries, tax systems benefit the rich more than the poor.
• The absence of policies for equitable income redistribution exacerbates social inequality.

3. Economic Volatility

• Economic crises (like global recessions and debt crises) disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
• Inflation and rising prices of essential goods further intensify the struggles of the poor.

---

Third: Social Causes of Poverty in Depth

1. Weak Social Infrastructure

• Ineffective Education Systems: Poor education leads to a lack of skills necessary for the job market.
• Lack of Healthcare Services: Poor health services reduce productivity and increase personal expenses.

2. Social Division and Discrimination

• Marginalized Groups: Ethnic and religious minorities, as well as women in some countries, face additional challenges.
• Inherited Poverty: Poor families often remain trapped in poverty due to limited opportunities for their members.

3. Natural Disasters and Conflicts

• Natural disasters disproportionately affect the poor due to their limited capacity to adapt or recover.
• Wars and armed conflicts destroy infrastructure and displace populations, further entrenching poverty.

---

Fourth: The Interactive Relationship Between Economic and Social Factors

1. The Vicious Cycle of Poverty

• Poverty leads to poor education and health, reducing job opportunities and perpetuating poverty across generations.
• Weak infrastructure hinders investment in human resources.

2. Cultural Impact on Poverty

• Some cultures accept poverty as an unchangeable reality.
• Lack of financial awareness leads to an absence of future planning and investment.

---

Fifth: The Role of Policies in Addressing Poverty

1. Government Policies

• Investment in Education: Ensuring access to quality education can break the cycle of poverty.
• Social Protection: Providing safety nets (such as social security and health insurance) to mitigate economic shocks.

2. Economic Justice

• Tax Reform: Implementing progressive taxation where the wealthy pay a fair share.
• Supporting Small Businesses: Providing financial and technical assistance to underprivileged entrepreneurs.

3. Sustainable Development

• Fair Use of Natural Resources: Ensuring that revenues from resources benefit local communities.
• Job Creation: Focusing on local industries and sustainable agriculture.

---

Sixth: Proposed International Solutions

1. International Cooperation

• Canceling or reducing the debts of poor countries to create space for development.
• Promoting fair trade to ensure developing countries are compensated equitably.

2. Combating Corruption

• Supporting governments in fighting corruption to ensure international aid and development projects reach those in need.

---

Seventh: Final Conclusion

Poverty is not merely an economic or social phenomenon in isolation; it results from a complex interplay between the two. Economic factors (such as wealth inequality and unemployment) are exacerbated by social factors (such as inadequate education and discrimination), making poverty a global issue that requires multidimensional solutions.

Addressing poverty requires strong political will, international collaboration, and deep reforms at both local and global levels. Investing in people, education, and sustainable development is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and achieving social justice.