Robert Putnam in Conversation: The Value of Social Capital and "Bowling Alone" in 2025
Description
The recent documentary "Join or Die" examines Robert Putnam's influential book "Bowling Alone," and the implications of declining social activity and civic involvement. Putnam will discuss the documentary, the decline in community connections across the country, and what it means for our democracy today.
Featuring:
- Robert Putnam
Author of "Bowling Alone"
Peter and Isabel Malkin Professor of Public Policy, Emeritus
Kennedy School of Government - David Ellwood (Moderator)
Isabelle and Scott Black Professor of Political Economy, Emeritus
Former Dean of the Kennedy School of Government - Deirdre Bloome (Introductory remarks)
Peter and Isabel Malkin Professor of Public Policy, HKS, and Professor of Sociology, FAS
Director, Stone Program in Wealth Distribution, Inequality, and Social Policy
Co-sponsors:
Stone Program in Wealth Distribution, Inequality, and Social Policy
Malcolm Wiener Center for Social Policy
Taubman Center for State and Local Government.
Please register with a valid Harvard email address to attend in-person. All JFK Jr. Forums are publicly livestreamed on our YouTube channel.
Accessibility
The IOP encourages persons with disabilities to participate in our programs. If you have questions about accommodations or the physical access provided, please contact 617-495-1360 or iop_info@hks.harvard.edu in advance of the event. The Forum is currently closed to those without a Harvard ID, and RSVPs are required for in-person attendance.