From the archive: Is society coming apart?

A study on the global implications of telecommunications technology

The Catcher in the Rye follows Holden Caulfield, a teenager who has been expelled from Pencey Prep, as he spends three days wandering around New York City. The novel explores Holden's disillusionment with the world around him, his feelings of loneliness and disconnection, and his struggle to find genuine relationships. Despite his cynicism and criticism of others as 'phonies,' Holden reveals a deep emotional sensitivity, particularly in his interactions with his younger sister Phoebe. The book delves into themes of adolescent angst, the loss of innocence, and the search for meaning and purpose in a seemingly superficial world[2][4][5].

In *A Time to Build*, Yuval Levin argues that the social crisis in America is not due to oppressive institutions but rather a lack of trust in them. He advocates for rebuilding and strengthening institutions like families, schools, and churches to foster unity and social cohesion. Levin emphasizes the importance of these institutions in shaping individuals and society, providing a framework for moral improvement and civic engagement.

Robert Nisbet's "The Quest for Community" is a sociological study exploring the historical and social forces that have shaped the concept and experience of community in the West. Nisbet argues that the decline of traditional mediating institutions, such as the family, church, and local guilds, has contributed to a sense of alienation and anomie in modern society. He examines the rise of the nation-state and its impact on community life, highlighting the tension between individual autonomy and social cohesion. Nisbet's work offers a critical analysis of modern social structures and their consequences, advocating for a renewed emphasis on local communities and traditional institutions. His insights remain relevant in understanding contemporary social issues.

In 'The Sum of Us,' Heather McGhee explores the pervasive impact of racism on American society, arguing that it is a systemic issue that harms not only people of color but also white people. She documents how policies and practices rooted in racism have led to economic disparities, such as student debt, housing crises, and lack of accessible healthcare. McGhee also introduces the concept of the 'Solidarity Dividend,' which suggests that gains can be achieved when people come together across racial lines. Through personal stories, historical examples, and economic research, McGhee presents a compelling case for why addressing racism is essential for the prosperity of all Americans.