Question

Housing in America falls largely outside the scope of the law - people are free to rent or sell property to whomever they want?

1) Falls largely outside the scope of the law - people are free to rent or sell property to whomever they want
2) is an area where equality in practice is now nearly a reality; people of similar incomes, regardless of race or color, find it equally easy to qualify for home mortgages
3) is an important civil rights issue, since housing patterns almost completely reflect the personal preferences of people and are not substantially influenced by past or present racial bias
4) continues to evidence a high degree of racial segregation
5) none of the above

Answer 1

Housing in America is subject to extensive legal regulation, especially concerning civil rights, contradicting the notion that it falls outside the law. The Fair Housing Act aims to prevent discrimination, but racial segregation and discrimination in housing still exist, notably impacting minority groups.

Step-by-step explanation:

The assertion that housing in America falls largely outside the scope of the law is incorrect. In fact, housing is a heavily regulated area, especially in terms of civil rights. The Fair Housing Act of 1968 and subsequent laws make it illegal to discriminate in the sale, rental, and financing of dwellings based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Further, practices such as redlining and mortgage discrimination have been outlawed.

Despite these legal protections, studies and historical evidence suggest that racial segregation and discrimination persist in American housing markets. For instance, the Milwaukee housing market remains one of the most racially divided, and discrimination in housing is linked to employment discrimination, with minorities shown fewer homes and subjected to stricter financial scrutiny than White counterparts.