Secular Haven: Longmont Book Club, Bowling Alone, by Dr. Robert Putnam

Hello friends! Please join us for a discussion of Bowling Alone, by Dr. Robert Putnam

Bowling Alone by Robert D. Putnam is a seminal 2000 book that argues Americans have become increasingly disconnected from each other, leading to a decline in "social capital"—the networks of relationships and trust that are vital for a healthy society. Using vast data, Putnam shows a drop in participation in civic and social groups, from bowling leagues to political parties, and links this decline to negative outcomes like lower educational performance, higher crime rates, and poorer health. He suggests that while factors like television, changing family structures, and suburbanization have contributed, a revival of community is possible, drawing parallels to a similar crisis a century earlier.

Let’s discuss how we can combat these trends within our own community. I look forward to seeing everyone soon.

I will bring coffee, cream, and sugar, feel free to being your own snack or drink of choice. I look forward to seeing all of you!

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