Putnam's "Bowling Alone"

Essay by jrlishUniversity, Master'sA+, February 2005

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Putnam's "Bowling Alone" is about the trend of disengagement that is currently occurring all across America. I read the book a few years ago and remember that he provided statistical data on how America's are becoming less engaged in social and religious activities. Although the workplace may have some contribution to these numbers, Putnam pointed out that women in the workplace, commuting, television, and single parents are all culprits contributing to the disengagement trend.

Let's take Putnam's argument on women in the workplace being one of the causes for social disengagement. Women in the workplace do impact the amount of time they can spend with their children as well as their engagement in extracurricular activities. On the flip side, for the first time women have substantial control over their own income, along with the social freedom to determine the shape of their own lives. Women's new options are good not just for themselves but for their children as well.

Studies have shown that kids do better in their own right when their mothers are happy with their lives, whether that satisfaction comes from being a full-time homemaker or from full-time employment. And largely because of women's new roles at work, men are assuming more of a role at home.

Putnam also used technology as an example of why we are becoming socially distant. It would seem like sitting in front of the computer playing games or surfing the Internet would inhibit people form getting out into the community. On the other hand I believe it has brought people closer as well. People are using the power of chat and email more then ever to stay in touch- globally!

I guess what I'm getting at is American trends have changed, and although Putnam provide statistical information to...