Final answer:
Relative poverty, as demonstrated by Mike's situation, describes living conditions below society's average, affecting one's ability to participate in common social activities and buy basic necessities. It contrasts with absolute poverty, where essentials like food are scarce, and highlights the higher relative costs for fundamental needs faced by the financially constrained.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mike, a college student living in a studio apartment with minimal amenities and an uncertain job situation, epitomizes what social scientists call relative poverty. This type of poverty is defined by living conditions that fall below the average standard of the society in which a person resides, making it difficult to live the lifestyle of the average person in that country. For instance, Mike's inaccessibility to amenities like a television, a regular job, and a car, while subsisting on cheap groceries, underscores his inability to enjoy what many consider basic amenities and social participation. The expense of being poor also plays a significant role, as those with financial constraints often face higher costs relative to their income, particularly in essential areas such as housing and transportation.
In the U.S., relative poverty contrasts with absolute poverty, often seen in underdeveloped countries, where individuals struggle for basic necessities like food. The concept highlighted by sociologists illustrates the complexities and relative aspects of poverty, indicating it is not merely about low income but how it compares to societal norms and the subsequent impact on an individual’s quality of life. Mike’s situation reflects the reality that many face, where even the essentials consume much of one's budget, leaving little room for unexpected expenses, savings, or investments in the future.