[MCN] Has the upward redistribution of wealth played a role in creating homelessness?

[Lance Olsen]

Google’s AI Overview
Yes, the upward redistribution of wealth has played a role in homelessness by widening income inequality, which makes it harder for low-income individuals to afford housing. This is because wages for most workers have stagnated while housing costs have risen significantly, and policies that favor the wealthy can exacerbate these trends, leading to greater poverty and homelessness. 
How upward wealth redistribution contributes to homelessness
Income inequality: Studies show a direct link between rising local income inequality and increased rates of homelessness. As wealth becomes concentrated at the top, the gap between the rich and poor widens, leading to more people being priced out of the housing market.
Stagnant wages and rising costs: For decades, inflation-adjusted wages for the majority of workers have remained nearly flat, while housing costs have soared. This makes it difficult for those with low wages to afford rent, even if they are employed.
Lack of affordable housing: The absorption of capital into residential real estate means housing costs are driven up, making it difficult to find affordable units. This is compounded by the diminishing availability of low-cost housing options that existed in the past.
Policy impacts: Policies that favor the wealthy, such as tax plans and cuts to social programs, can further concentrate wealth at the top and reduce the social safety net for those who are struggling.
Displacement: The concentration of wealth can also lead to gentrification in urban areas, where rising property values and new developments push out existing low-income residents and can lead to increased homelessness. 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
"The academic community inadvertently made a mistake by introducing climate change using mind numbing scientific details.
To truly understand what is happening all one needs to worry about is the concentration of carbon in the atmosphere. 
Carbon in the atmosphere is the earth’s thermostat. Period."

Editorial
The Maritime Executive
We Can Fix Climate Change If We First Fix Congress
https://maritime-executive.com/editorials/we-can-fix-climate-change-if-we-first-fix-congress



-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <http://bigskynet.org/pipermail/missoula-community-news_bigskynet.org/attachments/20251105/304e05c5/attachment.htm>