I was particularly taken by the second article, as it detailed the lack of sympathy I often take issue with when reading about the intricacies of black poverty. The de-politicization of struggles inherent in “inner city” communities (mentioned on page 6) is perhaps the biggest obstacle to overcome when attempting to better the areas through official action. Often, this mentality fails to view the state of poverty with any empathy and instead dismisses it. By arguing that the disparate quality of life between “mainstream America” and the “inner city” is due to “a breakdown of family values and structure” (6), rather than any overarching inequalities, allows for those making said accusations to both: vilify the people stuck in this impoverished cycle; and remove themselves from the moral obligation of helping. If black poverty is seen as a fault of the people involved, it becomes infinitely easier to aver that there’s nothing an outsider can do, or should do. Obviously the creation of policy cannot be ruled by emotion, but how much – if any – focus should be placed on empathy?