The author’s thesis, that modern apartment buildings are preferable, is a reasonable one, however a careful consideration of the pros and cons of the two types of housing will reveal that the choice is not as clear cut as the author would have us believe.

Although the housing options available today have greatly improved over those available in the past, it is still true that modern apartment buildings are far more preferable than houses. The modern apartment building is surrounded by. . . . The amenities of a large shopping mall, a plethora of restaurants, a movie theatre, a gym, a bowling alley, and countless other facilities that cater to the needs and interests of a majority of the population. The disadvantages to living in a modern apartment building are few. One, of course, is the cost of rent, which can be quite daunting. Many apartment complexes offer extremely cheap rents, but such places are difficult to find. Another disadvantage is that apartment living can be lonely. Living alone, especially in a noisy, bustling neighborhood, may be stressful. A third disadvantage is that apartment living is not conducive to large families. Some apartment complexes, especially those catering to college students, have very few apartments that can accommodate large families.

Yet, the advantages of modern apartment buildings far outweigh the disadvantages. An apartment is, first and foremost, convenient. Many apartment complexes are close to public transportation, allowing residents to commute to work or school easily. Many apartment complexes offer 24 hour security, allowing residents to feel secure and safe. Many apartment complexes have a swimming pool or a gym, allowing residents to stay active and healthy. Additionally, many apartment complexes offer a variety of recreational and entertainment activities. The residents of modern apartment buildings need not leave the complex to find food, entertainment, or exercise. A modern apartment building is, therefore, far more convenient than a house.

The residents of modern apartment buildings are also less prone to crime than their rural counterparts, and, by living in a modern apartment, they are better able to protect themselves and their property. The residents of modern apartments are less likely to need to repair their cars due to wear and tear from dirt roads, potholes, and other hazards. Additionally, modern apartment buildings have security cameras and security guards, meaning that, even if a burglar gains access to an apartment, he is likely to be caught and arrested. The residents of modern apartment buildings are, therefore, less vulnerable to crime.

The residents of modern apartment buildings are also better able to escape natural disasters. The residents of houses in close-knit, rural areas are often cut off from help or assistance if a disaster strikes. The residents of modern apartment buildings are surrounded by numerous emergency facilities, including hospitals and evacuation centers, meaning that they are better able to cope with a disaster. Furthermore, modern apartment buildings have sprinkler systems, meaning that fires are easier to put out, and, when a fire is put out, the residents are more likely to escape unharmed.

The author’s claim that modern apartments are preferable to houses is, therefore, debatable. Modern apartment buildings are undoubtedly more convenient than houses, but modern apartment complexes come with their own drawbacks, such as being expensive to rent and being crime prone.