Watch the following video in which Robert Neuwirth discusses informal economies.1.8 million jobs exist within this informal economic system. In developing nations, the informal economy is a significant part of the total economic activity.

What factors encourage the growth of these informal economic networks? Are these factors related to the country's existing economic system? Explain and justify your answers.

How do these economic systems create opportunity for low-income societies, especially women in these societies? Give examples.

Have you or someone you know ever been part of an informal economic system (e.g. sold at a swap meet or yard sale, provided services like babysitting or housecleaning, or created goods to sell such as jewelry, clothing or crafts)? Tell your story.

Please include references to the text and other scholarly references. Be sure to post your original response (minimum 400 words).