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PovertyCure is an initiative of the Acton Institute

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Issue Articles

We cannot only have a heart for the poor. We must have a mind for the poor, too. Study and learn through our Issue Articles in order to develop that mind.
Learning is action.

In our enthusiasm to serve others, we often jump before we think. As French philosopher Etienne Gilson said, "Piety is no substitute for technique." In other words, one must dedicate themselves to learning and training as mere enthusiasm and sincerity is insufficient. 

Explore our Issue Articles, broken into the four categories below, in order to equip yourself with knowledge about wealth creation, poverty alleviation, and human flourishing.

The Human Person

How you view the human person dictates how you view everything else, including theology, economics, politics, and... poverty. If we get our anthropology wrong, we will prescribe the wrong solutions and engage in unhelpful action. We must view the human person properly; for when we view people as made in the image of God with creative capacity,…

Charity That Hurts

People and organizations seek to serve the material poor out of a good heart. However, we must be aware that good intentions are not enough. We must think through the probable results of our charitable actions and seek to avoid damaging, unintended consequences. 

Below are several Issue Articles that highlight how charity can hurt its…

Foundations for Human Flourishing

Combating material poverty involves cultivating its antithesis: wealth. But how is wealth created? History has shown that societies need certain institutions and freedoms in order to truly flourish. On the other hand, societies without these same institutions and freedoms languish.

The Entrepreneurial Spirit

George Ayittey, Ghanaian economist and author, said: "Every social need is a business opportunity." The developing world is teeming with entrepreneurs who are seeking to solve those social needs through business. Unfortunately, there are significant barriers keeping many of these entrepreneurs from being successful. Learn what models exist that…

Rethink Poverty

Subtitled in 15 languages, this six part video series that will change absolutely everything about how you approach charity and missions.