Social Capital Measures Show Continued Decline Since 2000
Washington Monthly reported on trends in U.S. social capital since the 2000 publication of Bowling Alone. The article cited survey data showing a drop in public trust and referenced Robert Putnam's findings on community cohesion.
ecns.cnU.S. social capital since the 2000 release of Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam. The article stated that Putnam documented a decline in social capital beginning in the 1950s, linking lower levels of trust and cooperation to effects on well-being, relationships, health, lifespan, and economic growth.
It reported that trust metrics have continued to fall. The share of people who say they trust the American people to make judgments under the democratic system stood at 53 percent, compared with 83 percent in April 1974 when Gallup first asked the question. The article connected these trends to broader developments, including the rise of authoritarian populism and effects on the republic.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
4 events- 1950s onward
Putnam documented decline in U.S. social capital beginning in the 1950s.
1 sourceWashington Monthly - April 1974
Gallup recorded 83 percent trust in the American people to make democratic judgments.
1 sourceWashington Monthly - 2000
Putnam published Bowling Alone, documenting effects of lower social capital.
1 sourceWashington Monthly - 2026
Trust level reported at 53 percent in recent Washington Monthly coverage.
1 sourceWashington Monthly
Potential Impact
- 01
Lower reported trust levels may affect participation in civic organizations.
- 02
Continued decline in social capital metrics could influence local economic activity.
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