[eurasiantiger]

The situation:

A) people need undisturbed shelter and a feeling of continuity to feel psychologically safe enough to commit to meaningful life

B) undisturbed shelter is a privilege that comes at a premium

C) we do not allow people to construct their own undisturbed shelter unless they pay various kinds of premiums

A + B + C => van life

[joeberon]

Okay, cool, I agree that trying to live in this world can suck. Not sure how that's relevant to this discussion though.

[eurasiantiger]

Well, maybe if we actually did something about crime, life wouldn’t have to suck for so many people.

[joeberon]

What has that got to do with me saying I can afford to spend that much on rent?

[eurasiantiger]

Do you really have no problem with the idea that you work 8 hours a day just to pay off mobsters?

Because THAT is literally what is happening. Not hyperbole. Actual mobsters.

[joeberon]

My life is comfortable and my work is fulfilling in itself. I'm not working _just_ to pay that. Trust me, I don't want to not have to work at all. I am a scientist though so of course for many it is nothing like that; I am in a very privileged position.

I understand that the relationship between landlord and tenant is inherently predatory, I just don't see how exactly this is related to whether or not I can afford it. I think it's predatory whether I can afford it or not, but since you don't seem satisfied by me saying that I assume you only think it's predatory in cases where it cannot be afforded, which honestly is morally deplorable of you.

[Aeolun]

That is quite literally hyperbole.

The idea that all landlords in Berlin are mobsters is hilarious.

If anyone the goverment is to blame for facilitating it. Can’t blame the people with money that see a way to turn it into much more money (legally).

[eurasiantiger]

And exactly why did the city just buy thousands of apartments? Who exactly benefited from this?