In this engaging discussion, Robert Putnam, a renowned Harvard political scientist and author of 'Bowling Alone,' delves into the current state of community and connection in modern society. He highlights the contrast between isolation and the deep bonds formed in small groups within church settings. Topics include the decline of traditional gatherings, the rise of individual spirituality, and the evolving landscape of political and social beliefs. Putnam offers practical steps for cultivating fellowship and emphasizes the vital role of community for personal and democratic health.
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Life-Changing Date
Robert Putnam's first date with his wife Rosemary was a Kennedy rally.
This led to significant life changes, including a shift from Republican to Democrat, and from Methodism to Judaism.
insights INSIGHT
Partisan Divide
Bipartisan dating, like Putnam's experience, is rare today.
Political polarization now poses a greater barrier than religious differences.
insights INSIGHT
Delayed Life Stages & Loneliness
Delayed marriage and career settling contribute to societal disconnection.
This gap in connection during young adulthood leads to increased loneliness.
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In 'The Four Loves', C.S. Lewis examines the nature of love from a Christian and philosophical perspective. He categorizes love into four types based on ancient Greek words: *storge* (affection), *philia* (friendship), *eros* (romantic love), and *agape* (the love of God). Lewis discusses the characteristics, strengths, and potential pitfalls of each type of love, emphasizing the importance of understanding and balancing these loves to avoid corruption and to draw closer to God. He also explores the distinction between 'need-love' and 'gift-love' and how these concepts relate to human experiences and divine love[1][3][4].
BOWLING ALONE
The Collapse and Revival of American Community
Robert Putnam
In 'Bowling Alone', Robert D. Putnam presents extensive data showing how Americans have become disconnected from family, friends, neighbors, and democratic structures. He argues that this decline in social capital has significant negative impacts on physical and civic health. The book explores various factors contributing to this decline, including changes in work, family structure, suburbanization, and the influence of technology such as television and the internet. Putnam also discusses historical precedents and potential solutions for reviving civic engagement and social connections.
Making Democracy Work
civic traditions in modern Italy
Robert Putnam
This book, written by Robert D. Putnam and his collaborators, explores why some democratic governments succeed while others fail. It focuses on a unique experiment begun in 1970 when Italy created new regional governments. After two decades of analysis, the authors reveal patterns of associationism, trust, and cooperation that facilitate good governance and economic prosperity. The study highlights the crucial role of social capital and civic engagement in the success of democratic institutions, comparing the differences between Northern-Central Italy and Southern Italy in terms of their historical governing structures and current political and economic outcomes.
“ Precisely what brings you into communion with the church is not sitting—no matter how good the sermon is—it’s not sitting in an auditorium with 3,000 people,” says Robert Putnam. “It’s connecting with other cobelievers in a small group.”
Robert Putnam, political scientist and author of the cultural phenomenon Bowling Alone, joins Russell Moore to talk about social shifts in how we gather with—and separate from—one another. Putnam and Moore talk about religion, partisanship, and social shifts such as delayed marriage. Their conversation covers loneliness, the increasing number of people who do not identify with any religion, and politicization.
Moore and Putnam consider the importance of coming together, explore the history of communities in America, and encourage listeners with practical steps for cultivating fellowship.
Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include:
The Russell Moore Show 
