Nonfiction November 2024: Mind Openers: Bowling Alone by Robert D. Putnam

Week 4 (11/18-11/22) Mind Openers: One of the greatest things about reading nonfiction is the way it can open your eyes to the world around you–no plane ticket required. What nonfiction book or books have impacted the way you see the world in a powerful way? Is there one book that made you rethink everything? Is there a book that, if everyone read it, you think the world would be a better place? (Hosted by Rebekah at She Seeks Nonfiction).

What nonfiction book has impacted the way you see the world in a powerful way?

The nonfiction book that rocked my world when I first read it in 2002 was Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community by Robert D. Putnam. I had no idea that Americans were so lonely and so isolated. I want to do everything I can to encourage people to connect with others in my small town and in the world.

P.S.

Linda asked a good question in the comments: What suggestions does Putnam have for remedying things? I decided to do a little research about this question, and I discovered that a documentary was made in 2023 centering on Putnam's work. Here's the trailer for it.