Final answer:
The permanent underclass in cities has developed due to factors including white flight, reduced urban tax revenue, and systemic segregation. This has led to economic disparities, poor living conditions, and inadequate advocacy, trapping individuals in a cycle of poverty exacerbated by urban decay.
Step-by-step explanation:
The development of a "permanent underclass" in many cities is attributable to several interlinking factors. Historical patterns such as white flight, where affluent residents moved to the suburbs, have led to the concentration of poverty in inner cities. This migration resulted in a loss of tax revenue for urban areas, negatively affecting public services like education, which in turn impacted employment opportunities. Such economic disparities are further exacerbated by systemic issues like segregation, limited access to quality housing, and resources that are not scaled to meet the needs of rapidly growing urban populations.
Members of the underclass often find themselves in a cycle of poverty due to lack of employment or being confined to low-paying jobs. This situation is worsened by issues such as inadequate public transportation in urban areas, which can limit access to better employment opportunities elsewhere. Moreover, those who live in this underclass experience higher levels of stress, poor health, and regular crises, often without the means to effectively advocate for change or attract the attention of those in a position to implement reforms.
Essentially, the underclass forms due to a complex interplay of historical migration patterns, economic shifts, political decisions, and societal attitudes, leading to a population that is largely invisible to and disconnected from the more affluent sectors of society. These individuals find themselves trapped in a situation where escaping poverty is exceptionally challenging, and societal issues such as urban decay continue without effective intervention. This stark division serves to perpetuate the cycle of poverty and hampers overall social cohesion and development.