3 myths that block progress for the poor

[Robert_Sock]

annualletter.gatesfoundation.org/#section=home

By almost any measure, the world is better than it has ever been. People are living longer, healthier lives. Many nations that were aid recipients are now self-sufficient. You might think that such striking progress would be widely celebrated, but in fact, Melinda and I are struck by how many people think the world is getting worse. The belief that the world can’t solve extreme poverty and disease isn’t just mistaken. It is harmful. That’s why in this year’s letter we take apart some of the myths that slow down the work. The next time you hear these myths, we hope you will do the same.

• Bill Gates

Myth One
POOR COUNTRIES ARE DOOMED TO STAY POOR

Myth Two
FOREIGN AID IS A BIG WASTE

Myth Three
Saving lives leads to overpopulation

 

[kate_jackson]

This article does emphasise the use of contraception as a basis to move forward in developing societies. Population growth in a country rises in poorer countries and as that country developes people naturally have less children especially when contraception becomes available. So are large catholic families seen as very irresponsible. My gut instinct is that God can provide for every child and the world wasnt created to feel negative about population growth. These articles are the opposite. Would the Pope ever give the opinion that in marriage we should limit our families to be responsible or is it stated that with faith population growth would have his provision.
At Davos at the moment where the 85 billionaires are discussing issues and concerns have given an award to Matt Damon (actor) who has a micro finance company which lends at interest to those people and communities who do not have water. So lending at interest and getting them into debt those who have nothing…this isnt to buy anew sofa but water! 100 million people apparrently without water and they still lend at interest. The debt mongers need to have accountability and the poverty they have caused.

 

[St_Francis]

I have onlynread 1/3 of the article so far, and I have to say I disagree with him. The former LDCs are going through precisely the same process that the West went through during and after the Industrial Revolution. In that poor people are no longer poor, in that sick people can get medical help, this is good.

However, in that no one is really looking at the sustianability of this “economic powerhouse” I would say, well, that’s all well and good, but look at what lies ahead at the *end *of teh cyle, which I would say is exemplified by Detroit.