Abstract

Can We Do It? I. Yes, in an Integrated Economy

In his State-of-the-Union message and Economic Report in January U.S. President Harry S. Truman set as the housing goal a decent home for every American family within ten years. In a special housing message in February the President made more detailed recommendations for attaining this goal. Specific housing proposals almost as comprehensive as those advanced in February by President Truman had been urged upon Congress by the President on earlier occasions, and many of them were embodied in the Wagner-Ellender-Taft bill two years ago. The new element of vital significance is the recognition that the housing goal cannot be defined or achieved in splendid isolation. It must, instead, be placed firmly within the framework of a consistent program of goals for the whole economy.