"Recent reviews of past development efforts have acknowledged the persistence of poverty in all countries irrespective of their economic development. The World Summit for Social Development made the commitment to eradicate this scourge and invited all countries to join hands in the struggle against poverty. This has occasioned a rethink on the entire issue of poverty. The essays contained in this book, raise several issues relative to poverty. Highlighting the multi-dimensionality of the phenomenon of poverty, a case for a holistic and culture-specific approach to the solution of the problem has been presented. Written for different audiences and at different times, the essays brought together in this book clearly outline the author's approach, and raise challenging questions."