American Society Went ‘Mainstream’

The American Society Has Gone Mainstream: Why Community Matters More Than Ever

In a time marked by violence, division, and discontent, the idea of community has become more critical than ever. Yet, across personal, economic, and political spheres, engagement is at an all-time low. Many people no longer know their neighbors, younger generations feel disconnected, and civic duty is unstable.

There are many reasons for this decline. Social media has replaced real-life interactions, societal tensions have deepened, and modern lifestyles have made personal relationships more superficial. Some will argue that community is unnecessary, that individualism is the only path forward. History proves otherwise—community isn’t just a pillar of American society; it’s the foundation of every culture, shaping identity, values, and connection.

The Role of Community 

Without strong communities, people feel isolated, businesses become impersonal, and public services suffer. Local newspapers, which once played a key role in civic engagement, have struggled, leading to a rise in misinformation. According to a Pew Research Center study, people who actively participate in local elections tend to have stronger local news habits, reinforcing the idea that community engagement and an informed public go hand in hand.

Why Community Is the Missing Piece

Despite technological advancements, people still need connection. A sense of community fosters empathy, compassion, and understanding—qualities that make society function more harmoniously. It also influences industries that directly affect people’s well-being.

Strong communities improve public well-being, economic integrity, and informed engagement. When people are connected, they advocate for better healthcare, ethical business practices, and reliable local media. This sense of unity fosters safer neighborhoods, consumer-focused businesses, and accurate information—creating a society that is healthier, fairer, and more informed.

Community is a Safe Place

As society becomes more disconnected and individualized, it’s time to revive the sense of togetherness, with ideas that once defined our society along with the new ones. Community is a safe place, a refuge in difficult times, and as Martin Luther King, Jr. once phrased it, a “web of mutuality.”

By rebuilding lost connections in our neighborhoods, supporting local and small businesses, engaging in civic duty, and embracing the realities of the modern age, we can restore the community structures that once kept society strong.

For all our technological connections, a world without community is a world without connection. A world we now live in.

Good night and good luck.