The idea that "homelessness" is about a lack of homes is a dumb idea that just won't die. Those who promote it endlessly simply will not go out in the world and

The idea that "homelessness" is about a lack of homes is a dumb idea that just won't die. Those who promote it endlessly simply will not go out in the world and use their own senses to determine for themselves that it isn't true. Here's how you do it: go out and talk to the "homeless" and keep notes as to whether homelessness is probably that person's primary problem. The results: upwards of 90% of those surveyed will have some other main problem, and it will almost certainly be addiction, mental illness, or both. All of a sudden, it stops being a mystery why "homelessness" is a perennial problem: because we're misusing the term "homeless" for two of the most intractable problems in the human world. Calling those people "the homeless" is like calling cancer patients "the hairless". When I lived in a different place, I went on long walks. I started buying little care packages to give to those who were suffering out on the street. I gave an older woman a package and she was grateful and we had a nice exchange. The next time I tried, she almost attacked me. Think her primary problem is lack of a home? Lack of a home is just one symptom of her real problems.