538 | Yoni Appelbaum: Stuck - How the Engine of American Opportunity Broke
Feb 25, 2025
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Yoni Appelbaum, author of "Stuck" and Deputy Executive Director of The Atlantic, discusses the decline of the American Dream and the barriers to social mobility since the 1970s. He highlights how restrictive zoning laws contribute to rising housing prices and immobility. The conversation dives into the complexities of relocating for better opportunities versus the desire to stay in familiar communities. Appelbaum also critiques the challenges posed by remote work trends and calls for equitable urban planning to support marginalized groups.
The decline in American mobility since the 1970s reflects a significant societal shift, with barriers like rising housing costs limiting choice.
Restoring individual agency in the face of community stagnation is vital, as it empowers people to make informed relocation decisions.
Historical zoning laws and progressive housing policies have inadvertently exacerbated inequality, leaving lower-income populations without access to vibrant neighborhoods.
Deep dives
Understanding the Concept of Being 'Stuck'
Being 'stuck' in 21st century America refers to the inability of individuals to pursue better opportunities by relocating to more promising areas. The lack of mobility has significantly increased over the decades, with the rate of Americans relocating dropping from one in five in the 1970s to one in thirteen today. This stagnation is particularly concerning as more people express a desire to move yet face barriers such as housing costs and limited job availability in desirable locations. Ultimately, this gap between intention and action reflects a broader societal issue where many Americans feel trapped in circumstances that limit their potential.
The Importance of Individual Agency in Mobility Decisions
The debate surrounding mobility often centers on whether society should invest in stagnant communities or encourage individuals to relocate. The podcast highlights that rather than imposing solutions, emphasis should be placed on restoring individual agency so that people can make meaningful choices about where to live. The vibrancy of communities tends to correlate with mobility levels; when individuals have the freedom to move, their community ties can strengthen even if they choose to leave. However, when both mobility and community vitality decline, individuals feel disempowered and stuck, leading to a lack of optimism about future prospects.
Historical Context of American Mobility
Historically, Americans demonstrated significantly higher mobility, with one in three moving annually during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This ability to move freely was a distinguishing feature of American society, where individuals could reshape their destinies regardless of circumstance. The early 1800s began a shift that allowed residency based on intent rather than community approval, fundamentally altering perceptions of opportunity. This paradigm has since changed, and many now face systemic barriers that restrict not only their ability to move but also diminish their belief in upward mobility.
The Role of Progressives in Housing Policies
Progressive reforms over the decades have inadvertently restricted housing development, contributing to the current mobility crisis. Historical zoning regulations intertwined with racial covenants made home ownership and housing access disproportionately challenging for lower-income and minority populations. As a result, many individuals find themselves priced out of vibrant communities that offer valuable services and opportunities. The current landscape thus presents a dilemma for progressives; they must reconcile their ideals with the need for housing policies that genuinely expand access to communities for all socioeconomic groups.
Cultural Narratives and the Future of Mobility
Current cultural narratives surrounding urban living versus suburban life influence how individuals perceive their mobility options and choices. Cities like New York and San Francisco have recently faced negative portrayals, leading to shifts in public perception and potential outmigration. Understanding these dynamics reveals the necessity for cities to adapt and revitalize by increasing housing availability to attract and retain residents. The future trajectory will depend on how communities respond to these challenges, balancing their historical charm with the need for growth and diversity.
Yoni Appelbaum, author of Stuck: How the Privileged and the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity and Deputy Executive Director of The Atlantic, joins The Realignment. Yoni and Marshall discuss the state of the American Dream, the country's sliding reputation as the "land of opportunity" since the 1970s, why Americans are increasingly immobile, the 19th century heyday of moving, the role of zoning laws and new construction restriction in rising housing prices and immobility, and how to help Americans who don't want to leave their communities.
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