Cadging

Cadging is the act of obtaining something, typically food or money, by begging or scrounging. It is often associated with homelessness and poverty, but can also be seen in various other contexts. The term is derived from the Middle English word "cadge," which means to carry or hawk goods.

History

Cadging has been a part of human society for centuries. In medieval times, it was common for beggars to roam the streets, asking for alms. The practice was often tolerated, as it was seen as a way for the wealthy to perform acts of charity. Over time, however, attitudes towards cadging have shifted, and it is now often viewed negatively.

Methods

Cadging can take many forms, including:

• Street begging: Asking passersby for money or food.
• Busking: Performing music or other entertainment in public places in the hope of receiving donations.
• Panhandling: A form of street begging that involves directly asking people for money.
• Dumpster diving: Searching through commercial or residential waste to find usable items or food.

Legal Aspects

The legality of cadging varies by country and jurisdiction. In some places, it is considered a criminal offense, while in others, it is tolerated or even protected under certain circumstances. For example, in the United States, laws regarding cadging can differ significantly from one state to another.

Social Implications

Cadging is often seen as a symptom of larger social issues, such as unemployment, mental illness, and substance abuse. Efforts to address cadging typically involve a combination of social services, law enforcement, and community outreach programs.

Related Pages

• Homelessness
• Poverty
• Charity
• Begging
• Busking
• Panhandling
• Dumpster diving

This social-issues related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.