The article “Slums and Blight…a Disease of Urban Life” by James W. Follin, part of the Renewing Inequality project, exemplifies the urban renewal mindset that led to widespread social and economic inequality. Follin’s language reflects a view of urban “blight” as an ailment, justifying aggressive redevelopment as a “cure.” This perspective was common in mid-20th-century urban policy, which treated entire neighborhoods as obstacles to progress rather than communities with value and history. Consequently, policies grounded in this thinking often led to the displacement of low-income residents, particularly communities of color, and contributed to systemic inequality. By removing “blighted” areas for development, urban renewal projects disrupted established communities without addressing residents’ needs or offering fair compensation or relocation options, leaving lasting economic and social impacts. The Renewing Inequality project highlights these histories, promoting public awareness of the social costs of urban renewal policies.
James W. Follin, Slums and Blight--A Disease of Urban Life
([Washington, D.C.] : Urban Renewal Administration, Housing and Home Finance Agency: [1956])