The Politics of Poverty: There is an unprecedented amount of wealth around the globe, with nearly 3,000 billionaires worldwide. But there is also vast scarcity and inequality. One percent of the world's population controls more than half of the total wealth. Meanwhile, more than ten percent of American residents live in poverty, not able to make ends meet. Another 700 million people abroad live in extreme poverty, surviving on less than $2 per day. Individuals living in poverty grapple with violence, food scarcity, fewer educational opportunities, natural disasters and environmental degradation, housing insecurity, a lack of health care, stigma, underrepresentation, and so much more. This Freshman Seminar asks students to consider the politics of poverty. We will study indicators of poverty, how poverty is measured, the differences between rural and urban poverty, and the reality of those living in poverty in the U.S. and abroad. We will consider how past and present systems contribute to the perpetuation of poverty, especially for historically excluded and marginalized groups. We will also discuss domestic and global policies attempting to mitigate inequality, as well as the shifting political attitudes towards the poor. Moreover, we will consider how scarcity can rewire our brains and poverty's pernicious effects on decision-making. And we will examine the difference in political representation between the "haves" and the "have-nots." Beyond dynamic lectures, coursework, and assignments, the Seminar will also include visits with MSU alumni and to Congress, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Department of State, USAID, a soup kitchen, and other nonprofit and community organizations working to address domestic and global poverty.
The seminar is held during the summer before fall classes, carries 3 academic credits towards graduation, and fulfills the Experiential Learning Requirement for College of Social Science students.

Semester: Summer/Fall 2025
Program Dates: July 21st - July 30th
Housing: TBA
Courses: ISS 215 (4 credits)
Early Application Deadline: April 15th, 2025
Final Application Deadline: May 31st, 2025
Application link:
https://msueducationabroad.via-trm.com/program_brochure/17181
Program Fee: $1,500
Program fee includes lodging for 10 days while in Washington, DC, orientation, breakfasts and some meals, books/academic resources, metro card, transportation to and from field trips and cultural activities. Students are responsible for tuition, transportation to and from Washington, DC, additional meals/snacks, and personal spending money. Tuition and program fee will be billed to your MSU student account as part of your fall semester.