Final answer:
Poverty is often identified by social exclusion and vulnerability, considering factors like economic inequalities and susceptibility to harmful events. The poverty line helps determine who falls into this category, and analyzing the U.S. poverty rate reveals the variability among different groups of citizens due to various factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
To identify poverty on the basis of social exclusion and vulnerability, one must look beyond mere income levels and consider a wider set of factors. Social exclusion refers to the process through which individuals or groups are wholly or partially excluded from full participation in the society in which they live. Vulnerability, on the other hand, is the measure of an individual's or group's susceptibility to harmful events which can push them into poverty, including economic shocks, natural disasters, or illness.
Economic inequality is a signifier of poverty and is often measured by comparing the income or wealth of different segments within a population. The poverty line is a monetary threshold beneath which an individual is considered to be living in poverty. It is determined by considering the cost of a basic basket of goods necessary to meet minimal physiological needs.
Analyzing the U.S. poverty rate over time reveals the prevalence of poverty among different groups of citizens. Trends can show variations based on factors such as race, ethnicity, age, and family structure, with certain communities consistently experiencing higher rates of poverty than others. Over the years, economic policies, labor market conditions, and social programs have all influenced the poverty rate.