American democracy feels worn thin. Too many people feel left out, unheard, or unseen. For decades we’ve measured success by how fast the economy grows—but not by how well people are doing. We built a system that rewards rivalry between groups instead of relationships between neighbors.
The Deeper Problem:
We humans naturally form groups. It’s part of how we survive. But that same instinct can turn dangerous when fear and competition take over. When leaders tell us that our group can only thrive if another fails, dehumanization begins. Once that happens, cruelty can start to seem like courage.
This has shown up across history and across our own nation—from racism and antisemitism to political polarization. Add trauma and social media to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for distrust and division.
A Better Way Forward:
Healing starts with how we gather. Real human contact—sharing food, listening to each other’s stories, and working side-by-side—reconnects us. As researcher Robert Putnam reminds us, trust and belonging are learned by doing life together.
At Paths to Understanding, we call this growing at the pace of relationship and learning. When people meet across difference and discover their shared humanity, hope rises. When we learn together, small acts of cooperation grow into something bigger.
Next Up:
In Part 2, we’ll look at political scientist Jenna Bednar’s vision for how communities can build dignity, community, beauty, and sustainability—right where they live.
If you want to know more about Civic Hubs, go here: https://www.bettertogetheramerica.org/
Also, check out Braver Angels’ Citizen Led Soloutions: https://braverangels.org/citizen-led-solutions/