The Visible Poor: Homelessness in the United States

by Joel M. Blau

Taking an in-depth look at the causes of homelessness in the U.S., Blau debunks the convenient myths that most homeless are crazy, drug addicts, or lazy misfits who brought their suffering upon themselves. He argues that current government policies at every level are mired in pointless headcounting and quick-fix solutions that don't deal with the underlying causes.

Paperback

First published January 1, 1992

Reviews

[Shane Noble · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a brilliant look at the causes of homelessness in the US with a deep dive into some specific (inadequate) responses. Blau takes the wealthy to task as well as the politicians who enable this. He focuses on homelessness, but throughout shows how the problems that lead to homelessness also have a deleterious effect on those at the bottom of the economic ladder even if they have a roof over their heads. At the end, he sets out a grand vision of what would need to happen to correct the problem of homelessness and the obstacles that would be faced. An excellent read for anyone with an interest in social policy in America.