Monitor Series Begins Today on Poverty

The Christian Science Monitor begins a series to help readers better appreciate global poverty. Journalist and former presidential speechwriter Mark Lange initiates the series. His begins "by separating fact from fiction."

One myth is that "more aid is better":

more funding isn't the most critical issue.

While humanitarian assistance has saved millions, consider this startling conclusion from a recent study by the Center for Global Development: When aid rises to 8 percent of a recipient nation's gross domestic product, it has zero effect on economic growth. Above that, it has a negative effect.

The serious challenge is one of coordination.

Within the site is a link to a conversation with the author, Mark Lange.