The Problem and the Meaning of Material Poverty in the Age of Globalization. The Ethical and Pedagogical Aspect

Material poverty and all human difficulties and sufferings are regarded by man as a difficult reality. For some, this situation is a challenge to which they try to respond, others—especially the extremely poor—surrender, as they live day by day, trying to make their ends meet. At stake are also the disparities between rich and poor which increase with time, unfortunately to the detriment of the latter. The poorer half of humanity has as much wealth as the eight richest people in the world. At this point one deals with a question of globalization whose purpose is the integration and interdependence of countries, the desire to create “one world,” and so—greater solidarity and mutual support.