Which of the following is most likely to cause poverty to spiral out of control in a country?

• A. High unemployment rates
• B. Rapid technological advancement
• C. Stable and equitable income distribution
• D. Low levels of government corruption

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of poverty spiraling out of control: this refers to a situation where poverty worsens over time, making it increasingly difficult for individuals or groups to escape poverty.
2. Analyze each option in terms of its impact on poverty: consider how high unemployment rates, rapid technological advancement, stable and equitable income distribution, and low levels of government corruption affect economic opportunities and income levels.
3. Recognize that high unemployment rates reduce individuals' ability to earn income, leading to increased poverty and less economic mobility, which can cause poverty to worsen over time.
4. Consider that rapid technological advancement can sometimes displace workers but may also create new opportunities; stable and equitable income distribution and low corruption generally help reduce poverty rather than increase it.
5. Conclude that among the options, high unemployment rates are most likely to cause poverty to spiral out of control because they directly limit income and economic participation for a large portion of the population.