Introduction to Poverty and Economic Security

Economic insecurity affects millions of households globally, yet addressing it requires a deep understanding of structural forces, policy design, and local intervention. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the foundational concepts of poverty, social safety nets, and community wealth building. You will explore how economic disparities shape urban environments and examine the policies designed to mitigate these challenges. By reading through real-world case studies and analyzing policy frameworks, you will develop a critical toolkit for evaluating social programs and planning for equitable economic development. What you'll learn: Understand core theories of poverty, economic mobility, and structural inequality; Analyze the design and impact of modern social safety net policies; Evaluate urban planning strategies that promote affordable housing and community wealth; Examine how labor market trends and modern wage policies influence household stability; Apply policy evaluation frameworks to assess local and national economic security programs. The course begins with essential definitions of poverty and economic security before guiding you through historical policy developments, modern urban planning interventions, and contemporary debates on basic income and social welfare. This foundational program is designed for beginners, community advocates, and aspiring policymakers with no prior background in economics or urban planning. Start reading today to build a strong foundation in social policy and economic advocacy.