Blaming NYMBYs for protecting the value stored in their homes is not productive. This, like homelessness, is just a necessary outcome of real estate markets.

Homes are not shelter and safety for human beings, they’re an investment for the rich; reservoir of wealth for the middle class; and (an often unattainable) dream for the poor. This is why landlords are parasites, NYMBYs are jerks, and people live unhoused. Blaming it on individual choices and ignoring the systemic incentives is the same individualist bullshit that got us here.

Don’t hate the player, hate the game.