Midterm (w2)

To what does Putnam attribute the change in the social interactions of groups since the mid-20th century to now?

America has placed a high value on individualism. Putnam notes that individualism has been celebrated by famous authors (Emerson, Thoreau, Whitman), and suggests that its importance has been overemphasized through historical figures (Paul Revere). This overvaluing of individualism decreases bridging social capitol: ". . .[[disposing] each citizen to isolate himself from the mass of his fellows and withdraw into the circle of family and friends . . . [leaving] the greater society to look after itself" (24).