Core Viewpoint - The concept of "killing line" has gained significant attention, highlighting the precarious financial situation of many American families who could easily fall into homelessness due to unexpected events [4][6]. Group 1: Definition and Statistics - The "killing line" refers to a threshold where even middle-class families in the U.S. can become homeless due to minor incidents, such as a small illness or an accident [4]. - The "Alice Threshold" indicates that 20% to 40% of the U.S. population lives below this line, meaning they lack sufficient savings and income to meet basic needs [6]. - A recent article by Wall Street investment manager Michael Green states that the current poverty line for American families is an annual income of $140,000, while the official poverty line is over $30,000, and the median household income is over $80,000 [7]. Group 2: Social Commentary - The discussion around the "killing line" reflects a deeper understanding of American society, where many people are unaware of the underlying issues due to the glamorization of American wealth in media [18][19]. - The concept has been linked to various dystopian themes in American literature and film, illustrating the struggles of the lower class and the impact of capitalism on society [21][22]. - The current community structure in the U.S. contributes to social atomization, making it difficult for individuals to seek help during crises, which can lead to a downward spiral into poverty [28][30]. Group 3: Systemic Issues - The "killing line" system is not a result of a single individual's design but rather an evolution of various societal forces, including community structures and economic policies [27][31]. - The existence of a homeless population serves as a deterrent for others, reinforcing societal norms and expectations [35]. - The American political and economic landscape perpetuates a cycle where individuals are marginalized, leading to a lack of basic human rights for certain groups [43][45].