One Billion Americans by Matthew Yglesias Summary
Overview of One Billion Americans
Yglesias boldly proposes tripling America's population to secure global leadership. Economist Noah Smith praised this provocative vision for immigration and urban planning, while sparking heated debates: Could America thrive with European-level density while maintaining its character? A thought experiment that's reshaping policy conversations nationwide.
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Introduction: America's Crossroads
Imagine a United States with one billion people. It sounds audacious, even impossible. But as I argue in this book, it's not only possible – it's necessary for America's future. We stand at a crossroads. Our nation faces relative decline as countries like China and India grow in population and economic might. The question is: Will we embrace greatness or resign ourselves to second place? I'm not proposing we reach one billion overnight. Rather, I'm advocating for a mindset shift – a renewed commitment to growth, dynamism, and American exceptionalism. By thinking bigger about our population and potential, we can tackle pressing issues from climate change to housing affordability while securing America's place as a global leader. Some may balk at such ambitious growth. But America is far from full. Many of our great cities have fewer residents today than decades ago. We have ample room and resources to welcome more people and build thriving communities. With smart policies and planning, we can grow sustainably while improving quality of life for all. In this book, I'll lay out how we can get there – through boosting birth rates, welcoming immigrants, and reimagining our cities and infrastructure. It's an optimistic vision, but one I believe is vital for America's future. So let's dive in and explore what a nation of one billion Americans could look like.
Part 1: The Case for American Leadership
Part 2: More People, More Prosperity
Part 3: Welcoming the World's Talent
Part 4: Investing in Families and Children
Part 5: Building for Growth
Conclusion: Thinking Bigger
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From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
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