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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

By The New York Times

In this episode of The Daily, Robert Putnam shares his research on the decline of social capital—the connections and shared sense of responsibility that bind communities together. Through his framework of "bonding" and "bridging" social capital, Putnam explores how diminished community engagement across the United States contributes to polarization, inequality, and social isolation.

He warns that this isolation, particularly among young men, creates susceptibility to extremist ideologies. Putnam offers historical examples and proposes developing modern institutions to foster moral education and community bonds, countering the cultural shift away from shared responsibility.

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

1-Page Summary

Putnam's Social Connections

Robert Putnam, renowned for his research on social capital, admits to being less socially connected himself compared to his wife, who actively engages in the community. Though highly involved in various activities in his youth, Putnam acknowledges his professional demands have made sustaining those connections challenging.

Bonding and Bridging Social Capital

Putnam's framework distinguishes between bonding social capital (connections with similar people) and bridging social capital (connections across differences). While bonding provides immediate benefits, Putnam warns against its potential dangers of reinforcing exclusion. He argues America must cultivate more bridging social capital to bridge societal divides.

Putnam has mapped a U-shaped curve in social capital, polarization, inequality, and cultural attitudes over 125 years. He attributes the recent declines to a diminishing sense of moral obligation and shared responsibility, which he sees as fundamental to a healthy society.

Social Isolation and Extremism

Putnam views the current crisis of social isolation, loneliness, and distrust as making individuals, particularly young men, more susceptible to extremist ideologies. He argues this isolation stems not just from busyness or technology, but a cultural shift away from a sense of shared responsibility.

Community-Building Institutions

Examining historical examples like the Boy Scouts, Putnam proposes developing new institutions tailored to modern youth, combining fun activities with moral education to foster community bonds. Despite challenges in implementation, he remains optimistic about the potential for such endeavors to counter societal disengagement.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Putnam emphasizes the decline in social capital due to a diminishing sense of moral obligation, some might argue that economic factors and systemic inequalities play a more significant role in this decline.
  • The concept of bridging social capital as a solution to societal divides might be overly simplistic, as it doesn't fully address the complexities of power dynamics and systemic discrimination that contribute to these divides.
  • Putnam's U-shaped curve theory could be challenged by those who argue that social capital has not declined in a uniform way across different communities or that the metrics used to measure social capital are too narrow.
  • The focus on young men as particularly susceptible to extremism due to social isolation might overlook the broader range of individuals affected by these issues and the different forms that extremism can take.
  • The idea of creating new community-building institutions modeled after the Boy Scouts may not resonate with all demographics, particularly those who have historically been marginalized by such organizations.
  • Some may argue that the emphasis on moral education within new institutions could be problematic if it does not include a diverse range of moral perspectives and could inadvertently exclude non-mainstream viewpoints.
  • There might be skepticism about the feasibility of implementing new community-building institutions in a way that is both appealing to modern youth and effective in fostering genuine community bonds.
  • Critics might suggest that Putnam's optimism about the potential for new institutions to counter societal disengagement underestimates the challenges posed by the digital age and changing social norms.

Actionables

  • You can diversify your social interactions by joining a new club or group that is outside your usual social circle. By doing this, you'll be creating bridging social capital, which can help you understand and connect with people who have different backgrounds or perspectives. For example, if you're a book lover, try joining a sports team or a gardening community, which will expose you to a variety of viewpoints and experiences.
  • Start a conversation with someone from a different generation each week to strengthen intergenerational connections. This practice can help counter social isolation and build a sense of shared responsibility across age groups. You might chat with an elderly neighbor about their life experiences or ask a younger person about their hopes for the future, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
  • Volunteer for a cause that is not directly related to your immediate community or personal interests. Volunteering can be a powerful way to build bridging social capital and combat the feeling of social isolation. Look for opportunities in areas that are unfamiliar to you, such as assisting at a shelter for a different demographic or contributing to environmental clean-up efforts in a neighborhood other than your own.

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

Putnam's personal background and experience with social connections

Renowned political scientist Robert Putnam is renowned for his work on social capital, but he candidly presents the contrast between his professional research and his personal life when it comes to social connections.

Putnam acknowledges he is less socially connected than his wife, who is very involved in the community

Putnam was drawn to the town of Jaffrey because of its inherent social capital and community feel, made evident when a grocery store clerk remembered his potato salad preference from a previous visit. However, he openly admits that it is his wife who truly immerses herself in the community. She actively participates in a wide range of activities, including tutoring, teaching, and fulfilling her roles as a mother and grandmother.

Putnam used to be highly involved in various activities in high school, but as he has gotten older and busier with work, it has become more difficult for him to maintain in-person social connections

Reflecting on his high school years, Putnam recalls being extraordinarily active, joining every club and activity possible. Yet, as he has aged and his professional obligations have grown, particularly with his travel and work demands, sustaining those same levels of personal social engagement has become more challengi ...

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Putnam's personal background and experience with social connections

Additional Materials

Counterarguments

  • While Putnam's wife may be more involved in the community, it's possible that Putnam contributes to the community in different, less visible ways, such as through his research and writing.
  • Attraction to a community for its social capital doesn't necessarily imply an obligation to be actively engaged in it; one can appreciate and support community values in various capacities.
  • Being active in high school is not always indicative of one's ability to maintain social connections later in life; changing priorities and life stages naturally affect social engagement.
  • Acknowledging the challenge of balancing professional and personal social connections is important, but it's also crucial to recognize that this balance is not a static goal and can shift o ...

Actionables

  • You can deepen your community ties by partnering with a local business to start a monthly social event. Choose a venue like a coffee shop or bookstore that's interested in increasing foot traffic and co-host a gathering that encourages mingling, such as a book swap or a local artists' showcase. This creates a recurring opportunity for you to engage with neighbors and fosters a sense of community involvement without the need for extensive planning on your part.
  • Enhance your social network by initiating a 'walking group' in your neighborhood. Set a time and place for the first walk, and invite neighbors through social media or flyers. Walking together not only promotes health and well-being but also provides a casual setting for building relationships. As the group grows, you can delegate organizational responsibilities, ensuring the group's sustainability without it being a drain on your time.
  • Build ...

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

Putnam's theoretical framework of bonding and bridging social capital

Putnam's theoretical framework highlights the critical role of social connections in building trust within communities and institutions. These social ties are conceptualized through two distinct but crucial categories: bonding social capital and bridging social capital, both contributing uniquely to the fabric of society.

Bonding social capital refers to connections with people who are similar to oneself, while bridging social capital involves connections with those who are different.

Putnam defines bonding social capital as links to people who share similar characteristics or identites. For example, he cites his own connections with other elderly, male, white, Jewish professors as an instance of bonding social capital.

Bonding social capital can provide immediate benefits, such as emotional support, but it can also be dangerous if it reinforces in-group mentalities and exclusion of outsiders.

Despite its benefits, such as providing emotional support, he also warns of its potential dangers. Bonding social capital, if not balanced, can reinforce exclusionary attitudes and in-group mentalities that segregate and divide communities.

Bridging social capital is more difficult to build but is crucial for a diverse society like the United States to function effectively.

On the other hand, Putnam focuses on the importance of developing bridging social capital, which constitutes the ties to those who are different from oneself across diverse dimensions like generation, gender, religion, or politics.

Putnam argues that the challenge for Amer ...

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Putnam's theoretical framework of bonding and bridging social capital

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Bonding social capital involves connections with similar individuals, providing immediate benefits like emotional support but can lead to exclusivity. Bridging social capital, on the other hand, involves connecting with diverse individuals, essential for societal cohesion and functioning effectively in diverse settings. Bonding social capital reinforces in-group mentalities, while bridging social capital helps bridge divides in society. Putnam emphasizes the need to balance both types of social capital for a well-functioning and inclusive community.
  • Putnam's theoretical framework distinguishes between bonding and bridging social capital. Bonding social capital involves connections with similar individuals, while bridging social capital involves connections with those who are different. Putnam emphasizes the importance of balancing these two types of social capital for societal cohesion and effective functioning. Bridging social capital is seen as crucial for diverse societies like the United States to overcome divisions and strengthen democracy.
  • Bonding social capital can lead to exclusionary attitudes and in-group mentalities that may isolate and divide communities. It can create a sense of "us versus them," fostering distrust and conflict with outsiders. Over-reliance on bonding social capital may hinder cooperation and understanding with individuals outside one's immediate social circle. Balancing bonding social capital with bridging social capital is essential to prevent insular thinking and promote broader social cohesion.
  • Building bridging social capital can be challenging because it requires engaging with individuals who may have different backgrounds, beliefs, or perspectives. This effort demands stepping out of one's comfort zone to establish connections with diverse groups. Overcoming biases and preconceptions is essential in fostering meaningful relationships across vario ...

Counterarguments

  • Bonding social capital may not always lead to exclusionary attitudes; it can also foster a strong sense of identity and community resilience.
  • The dichotomy between bonding and bridging social capital might be oversimplified, as social networks often overlap and can provide both types of benefits simultaneously.
  • The emphasis on bridging social capital might overlook the value of strong, homogeneous networks in providing safety nets and mobilizing for collective action.
  • The challenge of cultivating bridging social capital may not be unique to America but could be a global phenomenon due to increasing diversity and mobility.
  • Putnam's framework may not fully account for the role of digital social networks, which can both bridge and bond in ways that differ significantly from traditional social ties.
  • The focus on social capi ...

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

Historical trends in social capital, political polarization, inequality, and cultural attitudes in America

Robert Putnam, a lifetime researcher of community dynamics in America, has sketched the broad historical arcs that define the country's social connectedness, political polarization, economic inequality, and cultural attitudes.

Putnam and his co-author Shailen Romney Garrett have mapped out a U-curve in social capital, observing how these components of societal health have experienced a decline, improvement, and then another plunge. From the early days of the 20th century into the 1960s, there was a noted improvement in measures of social connection, following an initial dip. However, since then, these same metrics have been on a downward trend that continues into contemporary times.

Putnam acknowledges a similar pattern in political polarization and economic inequality, noting they're not just American phenomena but rather present in various advanced industrial democracies. This implies that the current American experience of growing inequality over the last few decades is part of a broader, international trend.

Putnam believes that a foundational reason behind these troubling trends is a diminishing sense of moral obligation and common responsibility. This sense, he posits, is critical for maintaining a society where social capital thrives and polarization is minimized. Repairing these integral social bonds is a task that Putnam sees as daunting but essential.

Despite reflecting on his life's work with a note of disenchantment, realizing that his predictions and efforts have not been enough to alter history's trajectory, Putman exudes a resilient hope. He is convinced ...

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Historical trends in social capital, political polarization, inequality, and cultural attitudes in America

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The U-shaped curve in trends of social connectedness, political polarization, economic inequality, and cultural attitudes represents a pattern where these aspects initially decline, then improve, and finally decline again over a period of time. This pattern suggests that these societal factors have experienced a cycle of deterioration, recovery, and subsequent decline. The U-curve concept helps illustrate how these elements have fluctuated over the past 125 years, showing a pattern of rise, fall, and rise or fall again. This model provides a framework for understanding the historical shifts in social dynamics and attitudes within a broader context of societal evolution.
  • Social capital, political polarization, economic inequality, and cultural attitudes are interconnected aspects of society. Social capital relates to the networks and relationships within a community, influencing trust and cooperation. Political polarization reflects the division and conflict between different political groups. Economic inequality highlights the disparities in wealth and income distribution. Cultural attitudes encompass beliefs, values, and norms that shape societal behaviors and perceptions. These factors often influence and reinforce each other, contributing to the overall dynamics and health of a society.
  • A shared sense of moral obligation and responsibility in society implies a collective understanding of the duty individuals have towards each other. It involves recognizing the importance of looking out for the well-being of others and contributing to the common good. This shared moral foundation fosters trust, cooperation, and social cohesion, which are essential for a healthy and functioning society. When this sense of responsibility erodes, it can lead to increased individualism, self-centered behavior, and a breakdown in social bonds, potentially contributing to issues like social disconnection, political polarization, and inequality.
  • The academic debate surrounding public polarization focuses on whether polarization is primarily driven by elite influence or mass public opinion. Putnam suggests that political leaders play a significant role in shaping public attitudes, potentially fueling the desire to avoid those with opposing views. He highlights that while political elites may exacerbate polarization, most Americans are not deeply engaged in politics, indicating that concerns over polarization might be more pronounced among elites than the general public. This debate delves into the complex interplay between leadership influence and public sentiment in shaping the polarized climate in society.
  • Pol ...

Counterarguments

  • The U-shaped curve might oversimplify complex social dynamics, as societal trends are influenced by a multitude of factors that may not fit neatly into this model.
  • The assertion that political polarization and economic inequality are present in various advanced industrial democracies could be nuanced by examining countries that do not follow this pattern or have successfully mitigated these issues.
  • The decline in a shared sense of moral obligation and responsibility could be one of many factors contributing to societal issues, rather than the root cause.
  • There may be alternative methods to reversing negative societal trends that do not solely focus on restoring a moral foundation, such as policy changes or economic incentives.
  • The idea that repairing social bonds is daunting but essential could be challenged by suggesting that new forms of social connection are emerging that do not resemble traditional bonds but are nonetheless effective.
  • While Putnam suggests solutions exist for rectifying the eroding social fabrics of American life, it could be argued that identifying effective solutions is more complex and context-dependent than implied.
  • The influence of elite messaging on public polarization could be counterargued by pointing to the role of grassroots movements and social media in shaping public opinion.
  • ...

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

The contemporary crisis of social isolation and its consequences, including links to political extremism

Robert Putnam reflects on the current high levels of social isolation, loneliness, and distrust, warning of the wide-ranging negative impacts including a susceptibility to extremist ideologies and political movements.

Putnam sees the current high levels of social isolation, loneliness, and distrust as a serious white problem with wide-ranging negative impacts

Putnam observes a deepening and intensifying trend of social isolation over the last few decades. He notes that this crisis is now widely recognized, to the point where some places have even established government departments to address loneliness. This level of social fragmentation, he argues, is particularly detrimental to society because it makes isolated individuals, especially young men, more vulnerable to the allure of extremist ideologies, citing the historical example of lonely young German men who became eager recruits to the Nazi Party in the 1930s. Today, he points out, isolated young white men are similarly drawn to white nationalist violence.

Putnam argues that the modern phenomenon of social isolation is not simply a result of busyness or technology, but rather a deeper cultural shift away from a sense of shared responsibility and obligation to others

Putnam suggests that the contemporary crisis of polarization and social disconnection is largely due to top-down influences, with political figures contributing significantly. He indicates that most Americans are not deeply preoccupied with politics in their daily lives, implyin ...

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The contemporary crisis of social isolation and its consequences, including links to political extremism

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • The recruitment of young German men by the Nazi Party in the 1930s was a strategic effort by the Nazis to capitalize on the social and economic turmoil of the time. They targeted disenfranchised and disillusioned individuals, offering them a sense of purpose and belonging through extremist ideologies. This recruitment played a significant role in the rise of the Nazi regime and its ability to mobilize support for its radical agenda. The isolation and vulnerability of these young men were exploited by the Nazis to further their political goals.
  • Bonding social capital involves connections within a specific group or community, reinforcing existing relationships and identities. Bridging social capital focuses on creating connections between different groups, fostering diversity, cooperation, and understanding across various social divides. Bonding social capital can sometimes lead to insularity and exclusion, while bridging social capital promotes inclusivity and broader social cohesion.
  • Top-down influences in the context of social disconnection ref ...

Counterarguments

  • While Putnam emphasizes the role of cultural shifts away from shared responsibility, some might argue that economic factors, such as income inequality and job insecurity, play a significant role in fostering social isolation.
  • The focus on young white men as being particularly susceptible to extremist ideologies could be seen as overlooking the broader spectrum of individuals who may be drawn to such ideologies for various reasons, including socioeconomic factors, personal grievances, or psychological vulnerabilities.
  • The argument that political figures and divisive media significantly contribute to social isolation might be countered by the view that these are symptoms rather than causes of deeper societal issues, such as educational disparities or the decline of community institutions.
  • Some might argue that technology, while not the sole cause, has indeed contributed to social isolation by enabling people to live more of their lives online, reducing face-to-face interactions.
  • The idea that there has been a cultural shift towards individualism could be challenged by pointing out that community engagement and collective action are thriving in many areas, facilitated by new forms of online and offline organization.
  • The emphasis on the negative aspects of bonding social capital might be countered by highlighting its positive effects, such as prov ...

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'The Interview': Robert Putnam Knows Why You’re Lonely

Putnam's ideas for addressing the problem of social isolation through new community-building institutions

Political scientist Robert Putnam investigates the issue of social isolation among youth and proposes innovative pathways to foster community through new institutions, building upon the legacy of historic organizations.

Historical Examples of Successful Community-Building Institutions

21st Century Equivalents to Address Social Isolation

Putnam examines how institutions like the Boy Scouts and Boys Clubs combined fun activities with moral education and a shared purpose to construct community bonds. He asserts that similar organizations positively impacted democracy by instilling trust among individuals, which extended to trust in government and broader institutions. With this historical backdrop, Putnam believes that developing new, analogous institutions tailored to the modern day could mitigate the crisis of social isolation.

Referencing the "boy problem" of 1900, Putnam draws parallels to today’s challenges with social disconnection among youth. He highlights how organizations like Big Brothers, Boys Clubs (now renamed Boys and Girls Clubs), and Boy Scouts arose in the Progressive Era to tackle these widespread issues.

Putnam posits that for the 21st century, it’s crucial to conceive new versions of these organizations that appeal to today's youth. He suggests that such institutions could serve as a bulwark against the attractions of white nationalism and violence by marrying enjoyable activities with moral guidance.

Challenges and Hope in T ...

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Putnam's ideas for addressing the problem of social isolation through new community-building institutions

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Robert Putnam discusses historical community-building institutions like the Boy Scouts and Boys Clubs, which aimed to combat social isolation by combining fun activities with moral education. These organizations emerged in the Progressive Era to address issues of disconnection among youth. Putnam suggests creating modern equivalents to these institutions to tackle contemporary challenges of social disengagement. He emphasizes the importance of adapting these models to appeal to today's youth and foster community bonds in the face of societal issues like white nationalism and violence.
  • Implementing Putnam's ideas on a large scale faces challenges due to the need for widespread adoption and support from various stakeholders, including communities, governments, and institutions. The complexity arises from the diverse ...

Actionables

  • You can start a neighborhood storytelling night to share and listen to local histories and personal experiences, fostering a sense of community and trust. By inviting neighbors to gather in a park, community center, or even a large backyard, you create an informal setting where people of all ages can connect over shared stories. This initiative can be as simple as setting a date, spreading the word through flyers and social media, and bringing some snacks to share.
  • Organize a 'skills swap' event in your community to encourage cooperation and learning new things from each other. Set up a local bulletin board, online group, or use a community newsletter to invite people to list skills they can teach and skills they want to learn. This could range from gardening tips to basic car maintenance. The exchange of knowledge can help build trust and relationships without the need for a formal organization.
  • Create a digital photo project th ...

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