Yoni Applebaum, author of "Stuck," dives into the decline of American mobility and its societal implications. He explores how economic pressures have trapped people in place, shattering the quintessential American dream of moving up. The conversation highlights the historical evolution of mobility, the urban struggles in areas like Lower Manhattan, and the unintended consequences of gentrification. Applebaum challenges perceptions of community change and reflects on the complex relationship between mobility and social connections in contemporary America.
The significant decline in American mobility from one in three relocating annually in the 19th century to one in 13 today highlights a fundamental shift in societal dynamics.
The legacy of zoning laws and historic preservation efforts inadvertently reinforces segregation and limits opportunities for newcomers, stifling urban diversity and mobility.
Deep dives
The Significance of Mobility in America
Mobility has historically defined the American identity, with citizens believing they can change their destinies by changing their locations. This attitude has been rooted in the belief that individuals are not confined by their birth circumstances, enabling them to pursue better opportunities. The podcast highlights that during the 19th century, significant numbers of Americans were moving, with reports indicating up to one in three relocating annually. In stark contrast, current figures show this number has drastically declined to one in 13, raising concerns about the implications of reduced mobility on American society's fabric.
The Transformation of Communities and Zoning Laws
Early American communities shifted from selecting their residents to allowing individuals the freedom to choose where they lived, spurring mobility and diversity. However, this shift gave rise to zoning laws, initially intended to manage urban growth, that inadvertently reinforced segregation and restricted community dynamics. New regulations often favored affluent neighborhoods while limiting opportunities for newcomers, leading to a stalling of the geographic mobility that once characterized America. As a result, many towns became increasingly homogenized, prioritizing historical preservation over inclusivity.
Jane Jacobs and the Influence of Urban Preservation
Jane Jacobs emerged as a pivotal figure advocating for urban diversity and community engagement, promoting the idea that vibrant neighborhoods thrived on the mix of their local populations. However, her efforts in historic preservation and anti-urban renewal inadvertently hindered the very dynamism she sought to protect. While she championed the beauty of eclectic communities, her changes often resulted in fewer opportunities for newcomers and stifled the growth of affordable housing. Ultimately, her legacy illustrates the complexity of urban change, where attempts at preservation can lead to unintended exclusion.
Reframing the Housing Crisis as a Mobility Crisis
The discussion reveals a critical distinction between an affordable housing crisis and a mobility crisis, suggesting that the latter is a more accurate depiction of the contemporary housing landscape. While there exists inexpensive housing, it often fails to be in desirable locations, isolating populations from job opportunities. Effective solutions must focus on enabling individuals to live where they choose, rather than merely increasing affordability in less desirable areas. This approach not only enhances economic prospects but also revitalizes a sense of agency and community among Americans, encouraging a return to the country's rich history of mobility.
Americans used to move all the time to better their lives. Then they stopped. Why?
Read Yoni Appelbaum’s cover story on The Atlantic here.
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