Approaching the problems of homelessness from a public policy perspective, Lang points to the American political economy and how it permits community development patterns based on racism and self-interest. This study challenges the belief that homelessness is entirely due to the Reagan administration's cutbacks. Instead, it suggests the need for reform in our housing and employment policies. The book reviews competing socioeconomic paradigms that can explain why meaningful and effective programs are difficult to enact. The volume treats housing, community development patterns, economic segregation, problems of the urban underclass, and proposed solutions.