Are we losing our sense of belonging? Of caring? Apathy is on the rise.  How do we fix it? 

It is inherent in human nature that we feel the need to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Robert Putnam, Ph.D. of Harvard has researched the phenomenon that when people are actively engaged in their community there is a sense of social cohesiveness and people are happier and healthier. Whether that be a college, a social club, a religious institution or a neighborhood sports team we as Americans have been historically tuned into our communities and civic life.

Putnam’s research shows, however, that we are now beginning to feel a detachment from civic life…that as Americans we have turned inward. Recent research has suggested that the majority of Americans feel a lack of belonging to their family, friends, workplace, local communities – even church communities!

This course will examine this very issue of “community” and engagement in civic life.  What does that mean and have we in fact lost that sense of belonging?  And if so, what has caused that to happen and can anything be done to restore that sense of forging positive relationships and being fully engaged in something larger than ourselves? 

What to Expect:  

We will be watching a feature-length 2023 film based on Putnam’s work at Harvard titled “Join or Die” to kick-start our discussions.  Our discussions will delve into the  subject of community engagement and the prevailing sense of detachment in today’s society. We will explore the forces driving this feeling of anomie and alienation, and consider if and how this sense of detachment exists around us, and importantly, what we might be able to do about it.

Please Note: *With the use of the film, “Join or Die” we have changed this course from HYBRID to IN PERSON* The additional course charge reflects the fee to show the film.

3 Sessions | Thursdays | Nov 7, 14, 21 | 10:30 – noon | IN PERSON (no recording) | $50