Question

In the article “Housing Secretary Ben Carson Clarifies Comment That Poverty Is a ‘State of Mind,’” author Pam Fessler quotes Ben Carson, who says this:

What I said is that it is a factor. A part of poverty can be the state of mind. People tend to approach things differently, based on their frame of mind.
What does this quotation mean to you?
Why do you think the author wrote it?

Answer 1

To me, this quotation from Ben Carson suggests that he believes a person's mindset or attitude can play a role in their experience of poverty. He acknowledges that poverty is a complex issue with multiple factors contributing to it, and he sees the state of mind as one of those factors. Carson suggests that people may approach their circumstances differently based on their mindset, implying that a positive or determined mindset could potentially help individuals overcome challenges associated with poverty.

As for why the author, Pam Fessler, included this quote, it seems she included it to provide context and insight into Ben Carson's perspective on poverty. By quoting Carson, she highlights his belief that mindset is a factor in poverty, which can be a controversial and debated topic. Including the quote allows readers to understand Carson's viewpoint and encourages further exploration and discussion of the subject.