| This thesis examines dramatic change in housing policy since the 1930s, shifting from market-based solutions to policies that entailed substantial government involvement. These shifts have coincided with profound economic fluctuations. This thesis uses a theoretical framework established within the paradigm of modified pluralism to examine housing policy since the Great Depression. According to this theory, policy change occurs as government reacts to interest group pressure. However, not all interest groups are equal and government is most responsive to business interests. This thesis takes the paradigm one step further, deducing that because business interests are heightened during a time of economic strife, government reacts by promoting economic policies. However, because business interests are placated during periods of strong economic growth, government becomes responsive to other special interest groups and expands social policy. Consequently, government intervention in housing is influenced by the state of the economy.; This hypothesis can be tested through housing policy as it occupies a role in both economic and social policy. Federal and provincial housing policy is examined to determine the relationship between the economy and government housing policies through the use of three studies since the 1930s. During times of economic strife, the government responded to business interests and intervened to promote the economic side of housing to stabilize the economy and correct market inefficiencies. Comparatively, during times of economic growth, government has expanded the social policy side of housing through the promotion of equity thus appeasing other special interest groups.; As further validation of this thesis, it is evident that regardless of the state of the economy, interest groups have advocated for a strong government presence in social housing. However, most telling is that government intervention to promote social housing has occurred during times of economic growth. That is, the promotion of equity has occurred, only when the economy and consequently the public purse has allowed. Thus government is most responsive to those powerful business groups concerned with the state of the economy. |
