"If you search for poverty, you'll find it, often in the family. Why? Because the family makes this great investment, from which we all benefit, but for which no-one helps. We have to point the spotlight on the family, and make political choices that sustain the family"

Rocco Buttiglione's quote delves into the socio-economic dynamics of poverty, highlighting the central role the family plays in this context. The assertion that "if you search for poverty, you'll find it, often in the family" indicate the observation that families often bear the impact of economic challenge. This highlights the reality that households are frequently the very first line of defense against poverty, yet they are concurrently vulnerable to its effects.

The expression "the household makes this terrific investment, from which we all benefit, but for which no-one helps" underscores a crucial paradox. Families invest significantly in human capital-- they nurture, educate, and provide for their members, adding to the more comprehensive society's prosperity and continuity. However, this effort often goes unrecognized and unsupported by bigger social structures. There is an implicit recommendation that the sacrifices and contributions of families are undervalued, and they often lack enough external assistance, which in turn, intensifies their vulnerability to hardship.

Buttiglione's call to "point the spotlight on the family, and make political options that sustain the family" is a demand for a shift in policy and social priorities. By emphasizing the requirement for political options that sustain families, he advocates for systemic changes that might include better social safety nets, accessible healthcare, budget-friendly education, and fair labor practices that empower families economically and socially.

In essence, Buttiglione is arguing for a reevaluation of how social priorities are set. By advocating for policies that directly support families, he suggests that such procedures would not just alleviate the immediate symptoms of poverty however also contribute to a healthier and more equitable society overall. This approach needs acknowledging the foundational function households play and ensuring they have the required resources and assistance to thrive.