The Stalled Engine of American Opportunity with Yoni Appelbaum
Feb 25, 2025
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Yoni Appelbaum, the deputy executive editor of The Atlantic and a social historian, dives into the shifting nature of American mobility and opportunity. He explores how zoning laws often favor affluent areas, stifling upward movement for marginalized communities. Discussing the historical evolution of 'Moving Day' and the Yimby movement, he reveals the complicated ties between housing policies and social mobility. Appelbaum also reflects on Jane Jacobs’ impact on urban development and the critical role of local voting in enforcing change.
Physical mobility has historically driven social mobility in America, but stagnation has curbed opportunities, especially for lower-income populations.
Zoning regulations originally intended for urban planning have been manipulated to segregate communities, exacerbating socioeconomic disparities in housing access.
The decline in mobility impacts individual perceptions of agency and fuels political polarization, complicating efforts to foster community cohesion.
Deep dives
The Impact of Mobility on American Society
Physical mobility has historically been a defining feature of American life, driving both individual freedom and social mobility. The ability to relocate allowed individuals to seek better opportunities, often resulting in upward mobility and the formation of diverse communities. This mobility is linked to the broader narrative of American exceptionalism, where individuals could reestablish their identities and redefine their lives through relocation. However, this dynamic has shifted over the past few decades, leading to increased stagnation and reduced opportunities for movement, particularly among lower-income populations.
Zoning Laws and Their Consequences
Zoning has evolved as a mechanism to regulate where people can live and what businesses can operate in specific areas, often favoring affluent communities. Initially intended for urban planning, zoning laws have been exploited to restrict access to desirable neighborhoods, effectively segregating populations by socioeconomic status. This exclusionary practice has deep roots in American history, with the early examples of zoning reflecting outright discriminatory practices against immigrants and people of color. In contemporary society, stringent zoning regulations contribute to the housing crisis, making it increasingly difficult for new residents to find affordable housing in desirable areas.
The Historical Context of Mobility in America
From the colonial era to the 19th century, the American landscape was characterized by fluidity and movement as people sought economic opportunities and fled oppressive conditions. The change from rigid hierarchical structures in Europe to a more open society in America facilitated this movement, allowing individuals the freedom to choose their communities. Major historical events, such as the Great Migration, highlight how mobility has been a crucial avenue for minority groups seeking better living conditions. Despite these significant strides, the systematic dismantling of mobility through modern policies underscores a reversal of these earlier trends.
Contemporary Challenges and Psychological Effects of Reduced Mobility
The decline in mobility since the late 20th century has profound psychological repercussions, transforming individuals' perceptions of personal agency and success. Research shows that those who express a desire to relocate but are unable often become cynical and frustrated, leading to a growing sense of disenchantment with societal institutions. Additionally, increased polarization in American politics correlates with diminished mobility, as communities become more insular and resistant to change. This decline in physical movement not only restricts access to opportunities but also tightens ideological divides, further complicating efforts to foster community cohesion.
Potential Pathways Forward in Housing Policy
Addressing the stagnation of mobility in America requires revising housing policies and zoning regulations to promote greater access and inclusivity. Advocates for YIMBYism (Yes In My Backyard) suggest reforms that facilitate construction of diverse housing types, emphasizing the need for affordable options in high-demand areas. Empowering local communities to embrace more dynamic development can help alleviate housing shortages and accommodate a broader population. Ultimately, fostering a culture of movement and flexibility in housing will reinforce the foundational American value of individual freedom while addressing contemporary economic disparities.
A defining feature of America from its inception has been physical mobility. And that physical mobility has been the engine of social mobility. But we’ve seen a great deal of economic and social sclerosis over the past few decades. Our guest this week has how, for many people, America has ceased to be the land of opportunity. Yoni Appelbaum is a deputy executive editor of The Atlantic, author of “Stuck: How the Privileged and the Propertied Broke the Engine of American Opportunity,” and a social and cultural historian of the U.S. He joins WITHpod to discuss how the idea of mobility has changed within the last century, how things might become less “stuck” and more.
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