3 ms·
It's not that intelligent people can't understand basic economics, it's that basic economics isn't enough to explain the situation in San Francisco, so that ref
by intopieces 11y ago
It's not that intelligent people can't understand basic economics, it's that basic economics isn't enough to explain the situation in San Francisco, so that refrain gets pretty tiresome. Take a look at the responses you got to your comment to understand why "just build more housing" does not get the round of applause you're expecting.
I also encourage you to consider the massive differences between Seattle and SF, geographically, politically, economically, and socially. With all of these factored in, I think you'll better understand why "basic economics" is not enough.
- seibelj 11y agoIf you disagree with the sentiment that having 200k more units in SF would reduce prices, then you fail to understand basic economics. Now, if you are saying that building 200k more units is impractical, I wouldn't disagree. I'm just saying that the solution boils down to 3 options: increasing supply, reducing demand, or both. That's all there is. You can warp natural economics and impose rent control, mandated affordable housing, etc. but nothing but those 3 options will make any real difference.
- intopieces 11y agoEverything you say is correct, but so lacking in complexity and detail that none of it bears repeating. Do you have any particular insights into how to overcome any of the challenges specific to San Francisco? "It's simple supply and demand" is so often repeated as the catch-all solution it's practically achieved meme status.