San Fransicko: Why Progressives Ruin Cities
San Fransicko: Why Progressives Ruin Cities is Michael Shellenberger’s examination of homelessness, drug use and crime in San Francisco and other West Coast cities. It argues that progressive policies have worsened these problems, a perspective suited to readers seeking a pointed policy argument rather than a neutral overview.
At a glance
- Argues that progressive policies have contributed to worsening homelessness, drug dealing and crime in San Francisco and other West Coast cities.
- The author frames the book around his own stated shift in perspective after living in the San Francisco Bay Area and advocating for drug decriminalisation, affordable housing and alternatives to incarceration.
- The listing describes an argument focused on ideology and policy, using San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle and Portland as examples.
Reference price: $49.99
Price checked: 13 Nov 2026
View offerAhead of Black FridayExplore the selectionOften bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Addresses homelessness and urban policy through a specific, clearly stated argument rather than presenting itself as a neutral survey.
- Customer feedback highlights research, facts and studies, plus accounts described as drawn from street-level experiences.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | HarperCollins US |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 2 February 2022 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 416 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0063093626 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0063093621 |
| Weight listed | 635 g |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 15.24 x 3.28 x 22.86 cm |
What to know before buying
- The book advances a critical argument about progressive policy and urban problems. Readers seeking a balanced survey of competing explanations may want to supplement it with other perspectives. The listing specifies a print length but does not state a format or edition.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in arguments about homelessness, drug policy and crime in San Francisco and other West Coast cities.
- Buyers looking for a policy-focused book with a critical perspective on progressive approaches to urban problems.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking a neutral or explicitly balanced overview of urban policy debates.
- Readers who prefer books whose central subject is not homelessness, drug policy or city governance.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
71% 71% - 4 stars
20% 20% - 3 stars
7% 7% - 2 stars
1% 1% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback describes the book as well-researched, fact-rich and thought-provoking, with readers appreciating its account of San Francisco’s decline and its analysis of homelessness. Some also value its use of street-level stories and its proposed solutions. Writing quality is mixed, with reactions ranging from very positive to calls for improvement. These are reader impressions, not independent confirmation of the book’s claims. The reported strengths may appeal to readers seeking an engaging policy argument, while those who prioritise a particular writing style may find reactions less consistent.
Positive themes
- Readers describe the book as well-researched and rich in facts and studies.
- Feedback praises its analysis of homelessness and its thought-provoking account of San Francisco.
Mixed feedback
- Writing quality receives mixed reactions, with some readers praising it and others saying it could be improved.
Frequently asked questions
What is San Fransicko about?
It examines homelessness, drug dealing and crime in San Francisco and other West Coast cities, arguing that progressive policies have made these problems worse.
Is the book a neutral overview of urban policy?
No. The listing presents a critical argument about progressive policies. Readers wanting a broader overview may wish to consult other perspectives as well.
How long is the book?
The listing gives a print length of 416 pages.
