Kathmandu— America is experiencing a breakdown in social cohesion, with increasing numbers of people reporting feelings of isolation and disconnection from their communities. This trend, particularly pronounced among young men without college degrees, has sparked debate within the Democratic party about the role of liberalism’s emphasis on individual freedom. Senator Chris Murphy recently published a book addressing this “crisis of the common good,” arguing for renewed social commitment, but his ideas have drawn criticism from some liberals who fear any attempt to foster collective identity could veer into coercion.

The Rise of Social Isolation

Researchers at the University of Virginia’s Karsh Institute of Democracy found a disturbing trend in interviews with young men without college degrees: widespread social disaffiliation. Many reported having no regular social or community activities, stating they lacked connections beyond family. One interviewee said, “Except for my family, I don’t regularly do anything with anybody.” Another expressed a desire to participate but cited work commitments as an obstacle. This lack of connection contributes to a broader pattern of declining trust in American society.

Generational Divide in Trust

Data from the General Social Survey reveals a stark contrast in levels of trust between generations. While 41 percent of the Silent Generation agreed that most people can be trusted, only 13 percent of Gen Z shared that sentiment, with a striking 74 percent expressing caution about others. This low-trust environment poses a challenge for progressives seeking to enact transformative social policies, which often rely on a degree of collective belief and cooperation.

A Debate Over the ‘Common Good’

Senator Chris Murphy's call for a renewed focus on the “common good” has been met with resistance from some liberals, including Jerusalem Demsas, publisher of The Argument magazine. Demsas criticizes Murphy’s approach as potentially coercive, drawing parallels to historical abuses of power and arguing that attempts to define a shared ‘good life’ are inherently problematic. She suggests focusing instead on individual freedom and market-driven solutions.

Shifting Values and Economic Factors

Political scientists have observed a decades-long decline in community bonds, with dwindling participation in traditional institutions like churches, labor unions, and civic associations. This erosion of social capital coincides with rising economic inequality and the dominance of market forces, which some argue prioritize individual consumption over collective well-being. Research indicates that financial security is now seen as increasingly paramount, even surpassing other social values. According to a recent paper, affluent Americans are now having more children than those in lower income brackets, turning parenthood into a luxury good.

The Limits of Individualism

Critics argue that the prevailing emphasis on individual autonomy has inadvertently contributed to the current crisis of loneliness and meaninglessness. They contend that a purely market-driven society cannot provide the social connections and shared commitments necessary for a thriving democracy, echoing James Madison’s belief that virtue is essential for self-governance. Murphy proposes public service programs as one way to rebuild these bonds, while Demsas advocates for minimal government intervention.

The debate between Murphy and Demsas highlights a fundamental tension within the Democratic party regarding the balance between individual liberty and collective responsibility. Addressing the growing crisis of social isolation will likely require a reevaluation of prevailing liberal principles and a willingness to explore policies that foster community engagement.

(With inputs from Jacobin)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.