Robert Putnam speaks at Hood

Michaiah Varnes   

America has reached historic levels of political polarization, economic inequality, social isolation and cultural self-centeredness, according to a Harvard professor who spoke  at Hood on April 7.

Robert Putnam hosted the “The Erosion of American Democracy and the Upswing” in which he discussed his analysis of American democracy and examined the trends that have transformed society from an individualistic, polarized and unequal one into an increasingly egalitarian and cooperative one.   

The event opened with welcoming remarks from Hood College president Debbie Ricker. The event then followed guest speaker Morad Eghbal, a visiting professor of Law and Criminal Justice at Harvard.  

The presentation consisted of a brief overview of the U.S. presidential election in 2024 and how it differed from elections in the past, despite Republicans claiming that it was normal. Putnam highlighted that the key issue in this past election was economics.  

The election in 2024 was a key sign that there was a growing social isolation threat and a growing class gap between lower-class and higher-class social hierarchies. Putnam explained that 

Putnam also highlighted the COVID-19 pandemic as a key reason as to why self-isolation has become more common in society.  

Putnam stated that society as a whole needs to be more inclusive. “The change starts with the youth since they are the future,” he said.  

Toward the end of the event a Q&A was conducted with Putnam and Paige Eager, the interim provost at Hood College. Putnam also held a book signing at the end of the event with assistance from members of the Hood Law and Criminal Justice club.