The Audio Long Read
From the archive: Is society coming apart?
Mar 26, 2025
Jill Lepore, an acclaimed author, dives into the evolution of societal concepts in a post-pandemic world. She discusses how COVID-19 illuminated the relationship between society and government, revealing the erosion of connection amid deregulation. Lepore highlights community resilience and the impact of economic inequality on social cohesion. The talk also explores the New Left’s quest for social justice, contrasting philosophical perspectives while stressing the need for a renewed social contract to foster genuine connections in modern society.
42:36
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Quick takeaways
- The pandemic has revealed the fragility of societal structures, emphasizing the need for mutual support and collective responsibility in a post-pandemic world.
- Political ideologies from Reagan and Thatcher have contributed to contemporary individualism, undermining community connections and highlighting the importance of rebuilding social fabric through collaborative initiatives.
Deep dives
The Impact of the Pandemic on Society
The pandemic has highlighted the ongoing debate about the existence and role of society, especially in light of Boris Johnson's comments that affirmed its relevance despite Margaret Thatcher's earlier denial. It illustrated how collective experiences, such as the pandemic, bring societal structures into question and reveal underlying issues of alienation and isolation. For instance, as people were urged to socially distance, the dynamics of human interaction shifted drastically, often exacerbating feelings of loneliness. While some responded with acts of mutual aid, others showcased anger and discontent, reinforcing the notion that societal norms were under severe strain.
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