Poverty and Economic Security: Policy and Action

How do societies define, measure, and address poverty? In an era of shifting global economies, understanding the mechanisms of economic insecurity is vital for anyone looking to make a structural impact in policy, community development, or social advocacy. This text-based course equips you with the foundational knowledge to analyze poverty from both economic and social perspectives. You will transition from understanding basic definitions to evaluating complex social safety nets and modern policy interventions. By exploring real-world case studies and structural data, you will gain the analytical tools needed to propose viable, sustainable solutions for economic security. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational definitions, theories, and measurements of poverty and economic inequality. - Analyze the historical evolution of social welfare policies and modern safety nets. - Evaluate the impact of systemic factors such as housing, labor markets, and education on economic mobility. - Assess modern economic security strategies, including universal basic income, cash transfers, and asset-building programs. - Apply policy analysis frameworks to identify gaps in existing social support systems. This course begins with core concepts and measurement frameworks before guiding you through historical policy developments and contemporary economic security strategies. You will read in-depth analyses of structural challenges and practice evaluating policy proposals through structured written exercises. This course is designed for absolute beginners, aspiring policymakers, community organizers, and social advocates with no prior background in economics or urban planning. Start building the knowledge to design a more equitable future today.