[gb]

This is a good JSTOR article entitled Will we always have the poor among us?

[Bernardo]

gb, thanks for posting this interesting article and highlighting some good news. The World Bank has established twin goals of "eliminating extreme poverty and sharing prosperity." This takes into account that while the getting everyone above $2 a day is a good start, it's important to also think about the next 40%. For additional information, this paper provides a good overview of the data, plans, and policies of the World Bank: http://pubdocs.worldbank.org/en/109701443800596288/PRN03Oct2015TwinGoals.pdf The United States is the largest shareholder in the World Bank, but we do not have a controlling majority. We work cooperatively with other member nations to set objectives and policies via our seat on the bank's board. The key to eliminating extreme poverty is expanding education to all people. Connectivity, normally via cell phones, is a key technology enabling access to knowledge and financial systems. Wars and conflicts are major hindrances to progress.

[AR]

Guess I'll get in on this action before it hits the Steward form... "The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me." Mark 14:7

[trestle]

End poverty? With the list of characters who were just swept to power globally? I don't think so. If anything, we're right back to the good ol' 1890s and the 20th century never existed.

[hikersarenumber1]

We cannot end economic classes.. there will always be a top and bottom, but we can affect distribution of wealth, and the conditions for the bottom and the existence of a middle.

[Bernardo]

Yes, progress is being made against starvation and death from preventable diseases caused by lack of access to sanitation. That was the point of the original article. We may live to see the near eradication of extreme poverty. That would be a great milestone.

[Malachai Constant]

Problem is there is no constineuncy for eliminating poverty, least wise none that matters

[DIYSteve]