What We Owe Each Other - An Episode from Article 13
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May 31, 2025
This engaging discussion highlights the importance of rebuilding trust in communities. Guests share insights on the necessity of shared responsibilities within families, schools, and other institutions. They explore how unlikely friendships between political opposites can foster understanding. The conversation also emphasizes the pivotal role of strong family ties and personal connections in transforming society. Ultimately, it promotes grassroots efforts to bridge divides and fosters a sense of mutual civic responsibility in an increasingly polarized world.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Opposite Allies Create Friendship
Robert George and Cornel West developed a deep friendship despite opposite political views.
Their bond fueled innovative university programs promoting civil discourse.
insights INSIGHT
Institutions Lose Formative Power
Declining trust in institutions stems from people seeing them less as character-shaping entities.
Instead, institutions are viewed as platforms for personal agendas, eroding shared responsibility.
insights INSIGHT
The I-We Curve of Society
America’s societal progress tracked increases in political trust, economic equality, and social cohesion.
Declines in these reflect a rise in individualism over communal responsibility.
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How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again
Shaylyn Romney Garrett
Robert Putnam
In 'The Upswing', Robert Putnam and Shaylyn Romney Garrett provide a comprehensive overview of more than a century of American history. They identify a significant shift from an 'I' society to a 'We' society during the early 20th century, particularly peaking in the 1960s, and then a reversal back to individualism. The book uses statistical analysis and storytelling to illustrate this 'I-We-I' curve, showing how trends in politics, economics, society, and culture have repeated over time. The authors argue that understanding this historical pattern can inspire a new generation to work towards rebuilding a more communitarian society[1][3][4].
Overdoing Democracy
Robert Talisse
In 'Overdoing Democracy', Robert B. Talisse argues that the pervasive politicization of everyday life contributes to societal polarization, weakening democracy. He suggests that creating non-political social spaces is essential for a healthy democracy. By limiting interactions to like-minded individuals, we inadvertently damage the very fabric of democracy.
The sacred canopy
The sacred canopy
Peter Berger
Today, we’re so excited to share something brand new with you—the very first episode of a new podcast we’re launching here at Faith Matters. It’s called Article 13.
This new narrative podcast brings together cutting-edge research and spiritual wisdom to explore creative paths toward a more connected and compassionate world. As our society grows increasingly divided along political and cultural lines, Article 13—hosted by Zachary Davis—offers a hopeful and constructive alternative. Through deep dives into vital social issues, extraordinary guests, and beautiful sound design, the show models the kind of thoughtful, intelligent discourse our country needs—and offers practical ways each of us can make a difference, starting right where we are.
Today, we’re honored to share Episode 1 of Article 13 with you—it’s titled What We Owe Each Other.
In this episode, Zach is joined by voices like Cornel West, Shaylyn Romney Garrett, and Robert Putnam to explore what rebuilding trust really looks like—and why it matters now. They propose that real renewal begins from the inside out, as we recommit to the people we serve in the institutions we’re already part of—our families, schools, churches, and communities. When we view these roles as shared responsibilities, not personal platforms, we can begin to restore the trust and connection that hold us together.
It’s a thoughtful, timely conversation—and we’re so excited to share it with you. You can find Article 13 wherever you listen to podcasts.
Faith Matters 
