New Books in Sociology

Howard A. Husock, "The Projects: A New History of Public Housing" (NYU Press, 2025)

Jun 18, 2025
Howard A. Husock, a journalist and researcher at the American Enterprise Institute, dives into the intricate history of public housing in America. He discusses how well-intentioned policies often backfired, leading to the decline of vibrant Black neighborhoods. The podcast uncovers tales of community resilience against the backdrop of past mistakes in housing policy. Husock also emphasizes the importance of social connections in urban living and proposes reforms for affordable housing that honor community-driven solutions.
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INSIGHT

Public Housing's Elite Origins

  • Public housing started as an elite-driven plan, not a grassroots demand for better living conditions.
  • It aimed to replace slums with high-rise towers and green spaces but overlooked residents' desires and community value.
ANECDOTE

Early Public Housing Experiences

  • Early public housing residents were happy with new, affordable, modern apartments.
  • Over time, as better-off tenants left, maintenance suffered and conditions and safety declined.
INSIGHT

Chicago's Public Housing Impact

  • Public housing in Chicago largely replaced vibrant African American neighborhoods, demolishing key community structures.
  • This displacement erased social capital like churches and businesses, worsening segregation and community loss.
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