The Psychology of Poverty Alleviation

William Ascher is Donald C. McKenna Professor of Government and Economics at Claremont McKenna College.

• Part I Introduction; 1. The Challenges of Conflict Sensitive Poverty Alleviation; 2. Political Economy Considerations Part II The Underlying Psychology; 3. Identity, Attributions, Deservingness Judgments, and Hostility; Part III Lessons from Pro-Poor Policy Instruments; 4. Conditional Cash Transfers; 5. Social-Sector Spending Targeting the Poor; 6. Pro-Poor Subsidies and the Problem of Leakage; 7. Affirmative Action; 8. Regional Development Targeting the Poorest Areas; Part IV Overcoming Obstacles in the Policy Process; 9. How the Wealthy React to Pro-Poor-Labeled Initiatives; 10. Lessons and Conclusions.

'In this ground-breaking book, Professor Ascher applies social identity theory and other psychological insights to the problem of garnering and maintaining political support for policies to reduce poverty. In the current context of intensifying political polarization, this book is essential reading for academics, political leaders, and policymakers.' Judith Teichman, University of Toronto