Yoni Appelbaum’s Book “Stuck” Argues that Progressive Policies Have Frozen Social Mobility

This KQED Forum podcast interviews Yoni Appelbaum, author of "Stuck," about declining geographic mobility in the US and its impact on civic life. The discussion traces the historical roots of this immobility, highlighting the role of zoning laws and their unintended consequences, particularly in exacerbating housing inequalities. Appelbaum argues that decreased mobility, especially among lower-income groups, undermines civic engagement and economic dynamism, exemplified by the inability of a janitor in Alabama to improve their financial situation by moving to a high-opportunity area like the Bay Area. The interview also explores potential solutions, such as standardizing zoning regulations and increasing housing supply, to address this issue. The conversation concludes with a hopeful note, citing examples of cities beginning to address these issues.