Why has society’s pendulum swung back and forth between individualism and collectivism over the past century, and what implications does this movement hold for democracy and social cohesion? On the one hand, we have individualism, which is characterised by self-interest and division—the “I” society. On the other hand, lies collectivism, where community and cooperation reign—the “We” society. In his thought-provoking book, “The Upswing: How America Came Together a Century Ago and How We Can Do It Again”, Robert Putnam argues that America has moved between these two extremes over the past century, with significant implications for democracy and social cohesion.
In the early 20th century, the pendulum swung toward the “We.” This era saw a rise in community engagement, economic equality, and collaborative politics. Think of it like a vibrant neighbourhood where everyone knows each other, shares resources, and works together for common goals. However, starting in the 1960s, the pendulum began its swing back to the “I.” Individualism surged, leading to political polarisation and a fraying social fabric, much like a once-thriving community that has become fragmented and isolated. Think of it like a school playground. At one moment, everyone is playing together, laughing, and taking turns. Then, suddenly, a few kids start hogging the swings and the slide, and chaos ensues. For a while, it’s every kid for themselves until they remember how much more fun it is when everyone gets along.
Putnam argues that America tends to swing from being divided to united and then back to divided again. It has its roots in the Progressive Era, a time when America was focused on reform and improvement. Like a teenager rebelling against rules, society began to push back against communal norms and emphasised personal freedom and success.
So, in the early 1960s, America began to drift apart again, and the sense of community started to fade. The “me” mindset took over, and political polarisation began to rise. This self-centred approach has led to increasing division and decreased trust among Americans, raising concerns about the future of their society. Over time, this focus on individualism overshadowed the sense of community. It’s as if they’ve been attending a party where everyone is only interested in their conversations, ignoring the overall vibe of the room. To ensure the survival of their democracy, Putnam suggests a swing back towards a place where equality, trust, and collaboration are valued.
So, how do we swing the pendulum back towards a balanced society? According to Putnam, it’s not up to politicians, business leaders, or interest groups. It’s up to us – the public. This empowerment gives us the responsibility to initiate change. Here’s how we can start:
Renew Our Commitment to Community: Putnam emphasises that for democracy to thrive, we must renew our commitment to the community. This is not just a nostalgic call for the past but a practical necessity for the future. Young adults today can draw parallels to their own lives—consider how social media, while connecting us, often promotes superficial interactions rather than genuine community bonds. The challenge is to turn those online connections into real-world relationships, much like turning a digital friendship into a meaningful partnership.
Think of this as organising a potluck dinner. Everyone brings something to the table, and together, a feast is created. Getting involved in local communities, volunteering at a local shelter, joining in a community clean-up, or supporting one another during a crisis. When working together in these ways, a sense of trust and belonging builds.
Understand Your Past to Shape Your Future: To fix a problem, you first need to understand it. By studying how individualism took root during the Progressive Era, we can identify ways to encourage a shift back towards community. This process of understanding enlightens us and keeps us informed about the path we need to take. Just as the Progressive reformers of the past worked tirelessly to address social issues, today’s young leaders can use their energy and creativity to promote change in their communities.
Promote Equality and Trust: We must champion policies and practices that secure equal opportunities for all. Putnam argues the need to shift cultural narratives that glorify individual achievement at the expense of community welfare. We need to fully support initiatives that build trust and reduce inequality to ensure that no one is overlooked. He argues for a societal narrative that values cooperation, empathy, and shared success. This shift can be likened to changing the storyline of a movie; instead of a lone hero, the focus should be on a team working together to overcome challenges. Media, education, and public discourse can play significant roles in promoting these new narratives.
Promote Social Capital: The concept of social capital—networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society. Putnam argues for creating environments where social bonds can be strengthened. Finding common ground and collaborating towards shared goals is needed. This could be as simple as organising a community event, like a street fair or a charity run, where each member brings their unique skills to achieve a common objective. The collaboration uses the power of diverse perspectives and strengths to create a successful event that benefits the whole community and isolates the effects of individualism.
Empower Grassroots Movements: One of Putnam’s most compelling arguments is that social change is driven by the public, not politicians or business leaders, a grassroots movement where the power lies in the hands of the people. Young adults, often seen as the catalysts for change, have the potential to lead this charge. Whether through activism, community service, or simply engaging in local initiatives, they can embody the spirit of collaboration that Putnam advocates.
For instance, consider the impact of youth-led movements like climate strikes or social justice campaigns. These initiatives demonstrate how collective action can influence policy and create a ripple effect throughout society. By actively participating in their communities, young adults can help swing the pendulum back toward a more equitable and united society.
In The Upswing, Robert Putnam provides a roadmap for moving from a society focused on ‘me’ back to one centred on ‘us.’ It reminds us that while the challenges of individualism and polarization may seem daunting, history offers a roadmap for renewal. Just like a pendulum, Putnam asserts that America has the potential to find balance again.
Remember, it’s not just about swinging the pendulum back – it’s about maintaining that balance so everyone gets to enjoy the ride. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember that we are all part of a larger tapestry. Just as individual threads contribute to the beauty of a fabric, our collective efforts can create a more unified and resilient society. Let’s take that first step together and make the world a place where the ‘we’ matters as much as the ‘me ‘. Rudder4Life, an NPO dedicated to nurturing a new generation of leaders who value kindness and compassion as essential strengths, is working to reestablish balance in South Africa, and its mission aligns with the principles discussed here.
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