by David C. Schak
University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988
Paper: 978-0-8229-8569-3 | eISBN: 978-0-8229-7710-0 | Cloth: 978-0-8229-3822-4
Library of Congress Classification HV4610.A4S33 1988
Dewey Decimal Classification 305.569

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ABOUT THIS BOOK
In this fascinating study of a community of Chinese beggars, David Schak offers evidence that challenges widely held theories on poverty. It is a path-breaking, systematic anthropological study that challenges long-held beliefs about poverty, and is one of the few works on beggars available.

Over a period of seven years, Schak's fieldwork uncovers a structure of leadership, organizational methods, and alms-getting tactics. Moreover, certain members became upwardly mobile and able to leave this lifestyle. The severe stigma of gambling, adultery, and failure to marry proved the stimulus for a younger generation to leave begging behind.

See other books on: Beggars | Case studies | Mobility | Poor | Poverty
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