What would happen if people living in poverty were forgiven their small loans?

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Question: 

I was watching a documentary about microfinance in developing countries. Many of the loans were 20-100 dollars. What would happen if people living in poverty were just given the money, and not expected to pay it back? How would that effect the economy?

Answer: 

The need to pay it back would discipline the actions of the borrower, make them choose more worthwhile projects. This would raise efficiency. 

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Last updated on September 19, 2018