ABSTRACT
Chapter 2 explains existing theories of safety nets and poverty in the developing world text. Social safety nets are a set of policies and programmes designed to provide assistance and support to individuals and families facing various economic and social challenges. There are several theories that underpin the conceptualization of social safety nets. One theory states that social safety nets help reduce poverty and inequality by providing a minimum income and access to basic services. Another theory states that social safety nets promote economic stability and growth by ensuring that individuals have the means to participate in the economy. Critics argue, however, that social safety nets create dependency and can discourage individuals from seeking employment or improving their skills. They contend that these programmes are not financially sustainable in the long run and can limit individual responsibility. In addition, some critics argue that social safety nets can perpetuate inequality if they do not address the causes of poverty and instead focus only on alleviating the symptoms.
