Beyond The Myths: A Clearer Path to Poverty Alleviation in America
Posted by Aspen Institute on November 18, 2025
In a new paper for the Aspen Economic Strategy Group, Melissa S. Kearney and James Sullivan reassess poverty trends and policy responses in the United States. They argue that, contrary to common perceptions, poverty has declined substantially over the past four decades and that anti-poverty programs have played a central role in this progress. The authors argue that framing poverty reduction as a matter of simply transferring cash overlooks the complex and multifaceted challenges faced by those living in poverty. They also highlight three common misconceptions about poverty in America: the U.S. has made little progress at reducing poverty; anti-poverty programs are ineffective; and just giving people cash will solve poverty.
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