At the Edge of Poverty

The story, or should I say beginning of, "At the Edge of Poverty" by David K. Shipler was a little confusing to me. It seemed like he was rambling a lot, kind of like getting something off your chest. Anyways in his story he talks about people in poverty or just above the poverty line. Shipler mentions that people are in poverty for many reasons. It could be drugs, bad family situations, dropping out of school, or even this predetermined society. He mentions tons of reasons why people are in poverty but can't really pinpoint the definition of it. I believe it mentions that the dictionaries can't even really define it. He then speaks about this "American Myth" which kind of relates back to Walton's "Technology Versus African Americans" depiction of the "American Dream." The myth that no matter your status in life, with hard work and determination anyone can rise. He counter's that with the Anti-Myth. The Anti-Myth "which holds society largely responsible for the individual's poverty." Which in a way states that those in poverty are victims of greater power. He then states that people fit in between these myths. Tat each individual is a product of their own choices. I personally have to agree with Shipler in that I believe people have to work hard but also face reality. To be determined but also realistic in their decision makings.