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Reviving the Social Compact: Rebuilding Trust and Restoring Hope in a Fractured World

Milton Bell

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Published in Reviving The Social Compact: Inclusive Citizenship In An Age Of Extreme Politics (Explorations In Contemporary Social Political Philosophy 2)

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In his groundbreaking book, 'Reviving the Social Compact,' Robert Putnam, one of the world's leading sociologists, argues that the decline of trust and civic engagement is a major threat to our society. He offers a compelling vision for how we can rebuild these essential foundations of a healthy democracy.

Reviving the Social Compact: Inclusive Citizenship in an Age of Extreme Politics (Explorations in Contemporary Social Political Philosophy 2)

Reviving the Social Compact: Inclusive Citizenship in an Age of Extreme Politics (Explorations in Contemporary Social-Political Philosophy Book 2)

by Jack Heart

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Language	:	English
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Putnam's research shows that trust has been declining in the United States for decades. This is due to a number of factors, including the rise of individualism, the decline of traditional institutions, and the increasing inequality of income and wealth. As a result of this decline in trust, people are less likely to participate in civic activities, such as voting, volunteering, and attending community meetings. They are also less likely to trust their neighbors, their government, and their fellow citizens.

This decline in trust has had a number of negative consequences for our society. It has led to a decrease in social capital, which is the stock of shared values, norms, and networks that make it possible for people to work together. It has also led to an increase in social isolation, which is the feeling of being alone and disconnected from others. Both of these trends have contributed to the rise of political polarization and gridlock in our country.

In 'Reviving the Social Compact,' Putnam argues that we need to take action to rebuild trust and civic engagement. He offers a number of specific proposals for how we can do this, including:

Investing in early childhood education
Promoting civic education in schools
Encouraging volunteering and community service
Reforming our tax code to reduce inequality
Strengthening our social safety net

Putnam acknowledges that rebuilding trust and civic engagement will not be easy. It will require a concerted effort from all sectors of society. However, he believes that it is essential for the future of our democracy. As he writes, "The social compact is the foundation of a healthy society. It is the glue that holds us together. If we want to build a better future for our country, we need to revive the social compact."

Praise for 'Reviving the Social Compact'

"A powerful and timely book that offers a clear-eyed assessment of the state of our democracy and a roadmap for how we can rebuild it." - Barack Obama

"A must-read for anyone who cares about the future of our country." - Hillary Clinton

"A brilliant and provocative book that will spark a much-needed debate about the future of American democracy." - The New York Times

About the Author

Robert D. Putnam is the Malkin Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University. He is the author of several bestselling books, including 'Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community' and 'Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis.'