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Why is there reluctance on the part of some in the United States to redistribute income so that greater equality n be achieved?

How is the poverty rate calculated?

How does the poverty trap discourage people from working?

If a country had perfect income equality what would the Lorenz curve look like?

What are some reasons why a certain degree of inequality of income would be expected in a market economy?

Many critics of government programs to help low income individuals argue that these programs create a poverty trap. Explain how programs such as TANF, EITC, SNAP, and Medicaid will affect low-income individuals and whether or not you think these programs will benefit families and children.

Think about the business cycle: during a recession, unemployment increases; it decreases in an expansionary phase. Explain what happens to TANF, SNAP, and Medicaid programs at each phase of the business cycle (recession, trough, expansion, and peak).

Redistribution of income occurs through the federal income tax and government antipoverty programs. Explain whether or not this level of redistribution is appropriate and whether more redistribution should occur.

Explain what the long- and short-term consequences are of not promoting equality or working to reduce poverty.