Why Poverty?

Why Poverty? is a compelling, eye-opening documentary series from PBS that aired in 2012. Through an assortment of thoughtful, incisive films and shorts, the series aims to stimulate dialogue and raise further understanding of poverty - why it exists and the different ways in which it impacts human life across the globe.

Conceiving poverty as a global issue that transcends geographic and cultural borders, Why Poverty? features a selection of eight powerful documentaries from respected filmmakers around the world. Each feature-length documentary focuses on a different aspect of poverty, providing distinct perspectives on the matter, from personal narratives to big-picture analyses. The series bravely grapples with several tough questions such as how 21st-century's colossal wealth coexists with staggering poverty; the impact of global systems and policies on poverty and; the opportunities available for altering trajectories of poverty.

The series launches with Gabriel Mondello's 'Park Avenue: Money, Power and the American Dream', juxtaposing the lives of the residents of two Park Avenues - one an emblem of wealth in Manhattan, the other in the South Bronx, marked by poverty. The resulting dichotomy highlights the income inequality and wealth disparity existing in one city.

Brian Hill's 'Poor Us: An Animated History of Poverty' uses animation for delivering a global and historical panorama of poverty. Beginning with the dawn of human society and making its way into the future, the film ventures at the complex interplay of economics, politics, and social dynamics that contribute to endemic poverty.

Amid the various insightful narratives depicted in Why Poverty?, there's the unforgettable story in the film 'Welcome to the World,' directed by Brian Hill. Shot in Cambodia, Sierra Leone, and Oakland, California, this film aims at exploring why under certain circumstances, being born is a matter of life and death.

'Solar Mamas' by Monika Johal rides the inspiring journey of women from Jordan as they train to become solar engineers with the commendable objective of bringing renewable energy to their off-grid communities, combating poverty while promoting environmental sustainability.

The series also includes 'Rafea: Solar Mama', a film by Jehane Noujaim and Mona Eldaief, that tells an inspiring story of a Jordanian woman's journey to become a solar-power engineer, bringing energy to her remote desert village. The film showcases the transformative power of education and the potential for localized solutions to global issues.

The series comprises documentaries like 'Give Us the Money', by Bosse Lindquist, which delves deeply into the role of aid and activism in poverty reduction, reflecting on the efforts of well-known campaigners like Bob Geldof and Bono.

The short films spotlight views on poverty from filmmakers from across the globe, adding texture to the concept of poverty as a multifaceted global issue while offering ideas for its possible resolution.

'Why Poverty?' is an ambitious endeavor that invites viewers to engage, reflect on, and rethink poverty's persistent existence. The series prompts us to discuss the steps that should be taken by the global community and reflect on our individual roles. It highlights that while poverty impacts billions around the world, it's more complex than just a lack of resources; it's interwoven with global politics, systemic inequities, and entrenched power structures.

There's no doubt that Why Poverty? not only offers a comprehensive view of a widespread issue but also incites critical contemplation about the root cause, implications, and possible solutions for eradicating poverty from our world. The variety in filmmaking styles and narrative approaches makes the intricately complicated issue of poverty accessible to a wide range of people, allowing for a greater understanding of poverty's diverse scope and impact.

Each film in 'Why Poverty?' stands on its own as a significant piece of documentary filmmaking, yet together they weaving a comprehensive discussion about poverty. Viewing these films in conjunction can offer an expansive analysis of poverty, making this series a valuable resource for anyone wishing to gain a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding poverty.

The series, however, does not claim to provide all the answers. Rather, it encourages viewers to ask more questions, to engage in conversation, and to take collective responsibility to address and alleviate poverty.