The Economics of Injustice
Poverty

Publisher:  Research & Resources in Social Issues, United Church of Canada, Toronto, Canada
Year Published:  1975  
Pages:  1pp  
Resource Type:  Article
Cx Number:  CX21

Various aspects of poverty in Canada, the guaranteed income plan & social justice.

Abstract:  Despite welfare and social security schemes, the gap between the rich and poor in Canada continues to grow. The poor are poor, with scant exception, not because they chose to be but because they have no other choice. They are casualties of the way in which we have chosen to manage our economy -an economy which produces mountains of frivolous consumer goods and yet cannot provide the basic amenities of life -housing, clothing and food- for nearly 5 million Canadians. The facts force us to question the values that our society is based upon. There are choices we can act on. The guaranteed annual income plan is one. This broadsheet examines various aspects of poverty in Canada such as the working poor, minimum wage, legislated inequality, and market demands and then describes the GAI plan as it is proposed by the government. The paper emphasizes however that the GAI must be seen as part of more long range plans to establish social justice. Included is a list of additional resources and a "What We Can Do..." section outlining action which can be undertaken.

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