Final answer:
Constructing conditional proportions on poverty level by region involves calculating the percentage of the population below the poverty threshold, such as the International Poverty Line, and analyzing the U.S. poverty rate across different states and demographics over time.
Step-by-step explanation:
When studying economic inequality and the poverty line, constructing conditional proportions involves calculating metrics that represent the prevalence of poverty within different geographical regions. To accurately assess the level of poverty, the percentage of the population living beneath a designated poverty threshold, such as the International Poverty Line (less than $1.90 per day), should be calculated. It is crucial for researchers to compute these percentages to understand the distribution and intensity of poverty in various areas.
To create a more detailed analysis, the U.S. poverty rate over time can be examined. This involves looking at trends and the frequency of poverty among diverse groups of citizens, providing insights into which demographic segments are most affected by economic struggles. By analyzing poverty rates by state or region, as indicated by data like rates in Figure 18.14, we gain a clearer picture of how poverty clusters in certain areas and how it is dispersed across the country.