A Chinese Beggars' Den: Poverty and Mobility in an Underclass Community

Schak, David C.

ISBN 10: 0822938227 / ISBN 13: 9780822938224

Published by University of Pittsburgh Press, 1988

About this Item

245 pages. Ex-university library marks, light discoloring and wear; a good sound binding. No jacket. Quantity Available: 1. Category: Sociology & Politics; ISBN: 0822938227. ISBN/EAN: 9780822938224. Inventory No: 219602.

Seller Inventory # 219602

Bibliographic Details

• Title: A Chinese Beggars' Den: Poverty and Mobility in an Underclass Community
• Publisher: University of Pittsburgh Press
• Publication Date: 1988
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0822938227
• ISBN 13: 9780822938224
• Binding: Hardcover
• Condition: Good
• Dust Jacket Condition: No Dust Jacket
• Seller catalogs:
  • Sociology & Politics

About this title

Synopsis

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.

About the Author

David C. Schak is adjunct associate professor at Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia.