Final answer:
People choose to live in favelas due to a lack of affordable housing alternatives, a strong sense of community, limited government presence and services, and cultural/historical ties.
Step-by-step explanation:
People choose to live in favelas despite the prevalence of illegal activity for several reasons. First, there is a lack of alternatives for affordable housing, especially in urban areas where land ownership is questionable. Favelas are often self-constructed and start out as slums, offering a solution for those who cannot afford formal housing.
Second, favelas provide a strong sense of community and social bonds. Residents often form close-knit relationships and support networks, which can be appealing in a society where social connections are valued.
Third, favelas have limited government presence and services. In some cases, the government may have difficulty providing public services to the outer limits of cities, leaving favelas as isolated communities. This limited government presence can also lead to a lack of police protection or ownership rights in favelas.
Finally, cultural and historical ties to favelas may also influence why people choose to live there. Some individuals have cultural or family connections to favelas, and these ties can create a sense of identity and belonging.
In conclusion, all of the above factors contribute to why people choose to live in favelas despite the prevalence of illegal activity.