Social cohesion is essential for a thriving society from "summary" of Dark Age Ahead by Jane Jacobs
Social cohesion, the cement of society, is a quality that enables people to live together in harmony and work together constructively. It is a quality that is essential for a society to thrive. Without social cohesion, a society descends into chaos and disintegration, unable to achieve common goals or solve common problems. Social cohesion is not something that can be imposed from above through laws or regulations. It is something that emerges organically from the relationships and interactions between individuals and groups within a society. It is nurtured through trust, mutual respect, and a sense of common purpose.
When social cohesion is strong, people are more willing to cooperate, to compromise, and to make sacrifices for the common good. They are more likely to look out for one another, to support one another in times of need, and to work together to overcome challenges.
However, when social cohesion breaks down, society becomes fragmented, with individuals and groups pursuing their own narrow self-interest at the expense of the greater good. This leads to a breakdown in trust, an increase in conflict, and a weakening of social bonds.
In a society where social cohesion is lacking, there is a sense of alienation, isolation, and insecurity. People feel disconnected from one another, from their communities, and from the institutions that are supposed to serve them. This can lead to a sense of powerlessness, hopelessness, and despair, as people feel unable to effect meaningful change or to improve their own lives. A society that lacks social cohesion is a society that is unable to thrive. It is a society that is unable to address the challenges it faces, unable to seize the opportunities that come its way, and unable to fulfill the potential of its citizens. It is a society that is at risk of decline and disintegration, of losing its way and losing its soul.
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