Bowling Alone

“There is striking evidence, however, that the vibrancy of American civil society has notably declined over the past several decades.”

Putnam acknowledges that America has greatly changed since de Tocqueville’s visit. He agrees with the rest of the class that our values as American’s have shifted since the 19^th century. I am thinking of the “letters” we wrote to Fredrick Douglass when I say this.
The “average” American citizen has changed their focus from creating a fair place for everyone to just themselves. The focus on associations has lessened, and we are more likely to “bowl alone,” as Putnam states. But we should not be focusing on ourselves.

“Successful outcomes are more likely in civically engaged communities.”
He stresses de Tocqueville’s point of associations.

He also talks about how the quality of membership has declined.
“For the vast majority of their members, the only act of membership consists in writing a check for dues or perhaps occasionally reading a newsletter. Few ever attend any meeting of such organizations, and most are unlikely ever (knowingly) to encounter any other member.”

Perhaps people joining organizations have just joined others. Maybe the decline of organizations is not true – it’s just to other organizations.
For example – The League of Women Voters. Membership of this club is down 42 since 1969, according to this article. I feel like this is because voting is something women take for granted now.
I wouldn’t join the League of Women Voters because, well, throughout my life, women have always been voting. It doesn’t seem as special to me as it would to someone who spent half their life fighting for these rights. I’m not proud of the idea that I can vote – it’s just a fact to me.