Housing is a fundamental need and universal part of human living that shapes our lives in profound ways that go far beyond basic sheltering. Where we live can determine our self-image, social status, health and safety, quality of public services, access to jobs, and transportation options. But the reality for many in America is that housing choices are constrained: costs are unaffordable, discriminatory practices remain, and physical features do not align with needs. We have made a national commitment to decent housing for all, yet this promise remains unrealized.
Housing in America provides a broad overview of the field of housing. The evolution of housing norms and policy is explored in a historical context while underscoring the human and cultural dimensions of housing program choices. Specific topics covered include: why housing matters; housing and culture; housing frameworks and political ideologies; housing and opportunities; housing and the economy; housing discrimination; housing affordability; rental housing; and housing and climate change. Readers will gain an understanding of the basic debates within the field of housing, consider the motivations and performance of various interventions, and critically examine persistent patterns of racial and class inequality.
With short case studies, primary source materials, reflective exercises, strong visuals, and interviews with practitioners, this introductory text explores improving housing choices in America.
1. Unique Qualities of Housing 2. Housing and Culture 3. Framing Housing: Disciplinary Approaches and Ideologies 4. History of Federal Involvement in Housing 5. Housing and Discrimination 6. Housing Needs, Affordability, and Federal Responses 7. Housing and Opportunity 8. Housing and the Economy 9. Public Housing 10. State and Local Housing Initiatives 11. Rental Housing in America 12. People Experiencing Homelessness 13. Community Development Corporations 14. Housing, Sustainability, and Climate Change 15. Conclusion
Biography
Marijoan Bull, PhD, AICP is a practicing urban planner and Emerita Associate Professor of Geography, Planning, and Sustainability at Westfield State University, USA. In her career of over 35 years, she has focused on making urban planning the work of all and engaging the public in the design of a just and sustainable future.
Alina Gross, PhD, is an Assistant Professor of Geography, Planning, and Sustainability at Westfield State University, USA, where she teaches students the importance of community inclusion in the context of becoming effective planners and engaged citizens. Her teaching, research, and planning work focus on housing, public participation, and social equity issues within the field of planning.
REVIEWS OF HOUSING IN AMERICA, 2nd EDITION
"Housing in America is by far the most helpful housing textbook I have come across. This book serves as an excellent foundational text for housing courses. As a textbook, it is engaging and just right. It covers all the critical dimensions of housing comprehensively and concisely. It uses clear examples and prioritizes issues of equity and diversity. I love the classroom activities at the end of each chapter. This is a go-to housing text due to its coverage of every piece of the housing pie."
Yesim Sungu-Eryilmaz, Interim Director and Assistant Professor, City Planning and Urban Affairs, Boston University Metropolitan College
"If more people read Housing in America, as a country we would have a sound understanding of the myriad issues and influences that shape the quality and quantity of one of our primary basic needs. While straightforward enough to serve as an introduction for undergraduates, the chapters deftly interweave history, sociology, culture, race, economics, policy, law, design, construction and more into a comprehensive look at the current environment for affordable housing.
The update from the first edition highlights significant inquiry into the extraordinary impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic including the role of housing in public and household health, as well as the devastating economic and social consequences related to the enormous increase in evictions.
This book is required reading for my students in housing courses and my first recommendation for anyone trying to really understand the complexities and realities of housing in our society today. It provides a wealth of information and is a pleasure to read."
Elizabeth Debs, AIA, NOMA Studio Faculty, Interior Architecture Department, Rhode Island School of Design
"This informative book unpacks the essential role of housing in American life. The authors survey the many ways in which housing touches American society by thoughtfully positioning the topic within broader social, cultural, and economic contexts. The book provides a clear and useful overview of the connections between housing and affordability, government policy, opportunity, and discrimination. The revised edition includes additional important material on how housing intersects with pressing issues, including climate change and sustainability. This highly accessible compendium will be a valuable resource for students and other interested readers."
Shomon R. Shamsuddin, Associate Professor, Urban & Environmental Policy & Planning, Tufts University
REVIEWS OF HOUSING IN AMERICA, 1st EDITION
"Housing in America is an engaging book about the complex role housing plays in our lives. The authors begin by looking at the social, cultural and psychological meaning of home. Subsequent chapters take an interdisciplinary approach and examine the government’s role in housing, housing discrimination and segregation, affordable housing, and housing’s relationship to opportunity. This important and insightful work is elevated by its recognition that humanity is at the center of our housing dilemmas."
Meris Bergquist, Executive Director, Massachusetts Fair Housing Center
"Housing in America is the broadest survey of the largest asset class in the economy ever undertaken. Without bias, the authors address the many ways housing affects the economy, the family, demographics, the role of race, public policy, affordability, and homelessness. An essential overview of this vital element of life."
Christopher B. Leinberger, Charles Bendit Distinguished Scholar and Research Professor of Urban Real Estate, George Washington University School of Business
