UEP 295 Topics in Urban and Environmental Policy
Topics vary semester to semester.
Poverty and Inequality in America
This course will examine why the U.S. has more poverty and more inequality than any other wealthy nation -- and what we can do about it. The course will include class discussion, readings, and films. Among the topics we'll discuss are: Who benefits and who suffers from America's high of poverty and inequality? Should our society try to significantly reduce poverty and inequality? If so, what can we do? Who is poor in America? Who is super-wealthy? Who is middle class? What are the major stereotypes about the lives of the poor and the super-wealthy? How have issues of race, gender, and immigration influenced the level of poverty? Why are poor, middle class, and wealthy people in America concentrated in certain locations - more so than in other wealthy societies? Has government policy made poverty and inequality better or worse? What political movements and policy reforms have made a difference in improving the lives, and reducing the number, of America's poor? How can poor Americans and their allies influence politics and policy?
Students who want to get a head start on the readings should read Barbara Ehrenreich's book, "Nickel and Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America."
This topic is cross listed with SOC 295.