What We Got Right — and Wrong — in ‘Abundance’
It has been over a year since the publication of 'Abundance,' and the concept has gained significant traction in political discourse, particularly within the Democratic Party. While the idea of supply-side solutions to issues like housing and energy has influenced rhetoric and some legislation, tangible outcomes such as increased housing starts remain elusive. Critics argue that despite the momentum in messaging and policy proposals, measurable progress has yet to materialize, especially in high-profile states like California.
- ▪The concept of 'abundance' has achieved widespread recognition in political discussions, with Democratic governors and lawmakers referencing supply-side solutions.
- ▪Legislation such as California’s Abundant and Affordable Homes near Transit Act directly reflects the influence of the 'abundance' framework.
- ▪Despite legislative efforts, housing production data from 2021 to 2026 does not show a significant increase following the book’s release.
- ▪Marc Dunkelman views the 'abundance' movement as a significant shift in progressive policy, moving away from traditional government-centric solutions.
- ▪The authors acknowledge that while the movement has strong rhetorical and legislative momentum, it currently lacks measurable real-world outcomes.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
new video loaded: What We Got Right — and Wrong — in ‘Abundance’transcriptBacktranscriptWhat We Got Right — and Wrong — in ‘Abundance’It’s been a big year for the abundance movement, but what has it really achieved? Ezra Klein talks with his “Abundance” co-author Derek Thompson and with Marc Dunkelman, the author of “Why Nothing Works.”It has been a little over a year since Derek Thompson and I published “Abundance,” and so I wanted here at the just over year mark to have a check in. What has happened? What hasn’t happened? Which of the arguments have changed our minds? Which politicians actually seem to be doing something with the idea? And where does it all go from here? Derek Thompson is a contributing writer at The Atlantic.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at NYT > Opinion.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from NYT > Opinion
