Robert Putnam

Robert David Putnam (born January 9, 1941 in Rochester, New York) is a political scientist and professor at Harvard University, well-known for his writings on civic engagement, civil society, and social capital, a concept of which he is probably the leading exponent.

Related Topics:
January 9 - 1941 - Rochester, New York - Political scientist - Harvard University - Civil society - Social capital

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His most famous (and controversial) work, Bowling Alone, argues that the United States has undergone an unprecedented collapse in civic, social, associational, and political life (social capital) since the 1960s, with serious negative consequences. Though he measured this decline in data of many varieties, his most striking point was that virtually every traditional civic, social, and fraternal organization -- typified by bowling leagues -- had undergone a massive decline in membership.

Related Topics:
Bowling Alone - 1960s - Bowling

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