Understanding the Mismatch among the Three Definitions of Poverty

The definition of poverty has drawn closer to multidimensionality within various theoretical frameworks. However, even though basic individual needs are itrinsic to human nature regardless of historical and social contexts, the issue of defining poverty in a universal manner may be impeded by the network of interrelations that is specific to the social background of poverty. Examining micro-level evidence from two slums in Delhi, this paper explores the differences in practice of different definitions of poverty - monetary poverty, primary good deprivation and lack of capabilities - to measure the extent of poverty according to each approach. The results show little evidence of a perfect match between the three definitions of poverty.