ABSTRACT
The ravages of poverty are well documented, globally. Philosophers and social commentators have observed and researched and analyzed the genesis of poverty. This chapter discusses the impact of poverty on education, and describes the parameters of an economic system which predisposes, indeed guarantees, the sustained presence and proliferation of poverty. Poverty, under global capitalism, arises out of the antagonistic relationship between workers and employers. The more unemployment there is, the fewer income taxes can be collected for the commons, resulting in fewer social protections. These protections are not only about unemployment benefits, food stamps and Medicaid, they include police, fire and education. The importance of parental participation in their children's education has taken on a new twist in Tennessee. Many children go to school, anticipating the meal they will receive, however inadequate, once they arrive, because food is scarce at home.
