Quillette Narrated The Warmth of Collectivism
Jan 14, 2026
Zohran Mamdani aims to reshape NYC governance towards collectivism, but the city faces a unique challenge with a system that often blocks progress. Discussions reveal how property could be treated as a shared asset and highlight the complexities of centralized planning. Case studies illustrate the struggles of rent regulations and local opposition to homeless shelters. The podcast explores the implications of community vetoes on infrastructure and development, calling for streamlined approvals to overcome bureaucratic hurdles.
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Collectivism Pledged For New York
- John Aziz highlights Mayor Zohran Mamdani's promise to shift from individualism to collectivism in NYC governance.
- He notes the administration's plans include free buses, rent freezes, universal childcare, and higher wealth taxes.
Local Knowledge Versus Central Plans
- Aziz explains millions of local decisions rely on fragmented individual knowledge that central planning cannot easily replicate.
- He argues rent caps expose a mismatch: landlords' incomes are capped while costs keep rising, creating deterioration risks.
Rent Freeze Produced Cost Squeeze
- Aziz recounts the 2020 Rent Guidelines Board decision to set 0% increases for certain rent-stabilised leases.
- He shows costs rose steeply afterwards, forcing landlords to run losses, inject cash, or let buildings deteriorate.
