Read Item H below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 12 - 2022 - Paper 2

To evaluate the view that poverty is caused by structural factors, we must first understand what structural factors are. These include systemic issues such as capitalism, social class, and government policies that impact economic distribution.

1. Understanding Structural Factors: Structural factors such as capitalism create inherent inequalities. For example, Marxists argue that the capitalist system perpetuates wealth among the upper class while sidelining the lower class, leading to poverty. Government policies often protect the interests of the affluent, as seen in tax breaks that favor wealthy individuals and corporations.

2. Critique of Structuralism: However, not all sociologists agree that structural factors solely account for poverty. Some argue that individual attitudes and behaviors also play a crucial role in poverty. For instance, cultural factors such as a lack of ambition or education can influence one’s socioeconomic status. This perspective suggests that solutions to poverty should also focus on individual empowerment and social attitudes.

3. Integration of Views: It’s essential to integrate both structural and individualistic views to develop a comprehensive understanding of poverty. While structural factors lay the groundwork for poverty through inequality, individual behaviors often shape people’s responses to those conditions.

4. Conclusion: In conclusion, while structural factors significantly contribute to poverty, they do not act in isolation. A holistic approach that considers both structural inequalities and individual behaviors will provide a more nuanced understanding of the complexities of poverty.