I recently attended a screening of a documentary with the rather ominous title, “Join or Die.” The film follows the work of political scientist Robert Putnam, perhaps best known as the author of the 2000 book Bowling Alone. Putnam’s work centers on the idea of social capital, or the connectedness, reciprocity, and trust that come from engagement with others in our community. Over many years of research, he has traced the correlation between social capital and a number of factors involved in the well-being of individuals, communities, and entire societies. As we find ourselves struggling in a time of seemingly unprecedented polarization, these ideas are worth revisiting.
The title of Bowling Alone comes from data which found that as many Americans as ever go to the bowling alley, but fewer and fewer people participate in bowling leagues. “Bowling alone” has been used as a sort of shorthand for the “loneliness epidemic” highlighted by the Surgeon General, which has implications for virtually all aspects of our lives.
In his discussion of social capital, Putnam distinguishes between networks which are inward-looking, reinforcing exclusive identities, homogeneous groups, and those which include people across “diverse social cleavages.” While groups that provide bonding with those who are similar can engender feelings of belonging and security, this research shows that outward-looking groups are necessary for building trust and health in a community and society. In a time that feels politically divisive and polarizing, it becomes even more important to find common ground. In outward-looking groups, finding common ground with others often involves seemingly trivial interests and activities that help the “other” become a real person whose input and opinions are worthy of attention and consideration.
As I watched this film, I was struck by the hopefulness projected by Dr. Putnam. Through interviews with people across the political spectrum and spotlighting different community organizations including a “secret society” in Texas and a cycling club in Atlanta, he not only documents the recent decline in joining but focuses on understanding what can motivate a return.
So, as many of us are feeling a sense of helplessness in the face of nationwide, and worldwide, challenges in communication and understanding, healing might start with something as simple as volunteering at a park cleanup, joining a community choir, signing up for adult kickball, or yes, joining a bowling league.