Join or Die

Harvard professor and award-winning writer Robert Putnam, originally from Port Clinton, Ohio, makes a case for social capital, insisting that joining any type of group—be it a community organization or school club or even a bowling league—is the key to promoting democracy and fixing an increasingly divided country. —M.G.

Political scientist Robert Putnam’s life work is about social capital, and his study of the decline in American community engagement culminated in his influential book Bowling Alone. In JOIN OR DIE, Putnam’s findings serve as a launching pad for activism. The film posits clubs and associations as a cornerstone of American democracy, while also unpacking the many societal and economic factors that have contributed to our downturn in civic involvement. With surprisingly upbeat imagery and interview appearances from such political figures as Hillary Clinton and Pete Buttigieg, this documentary shows the impact of America’s pivot from communal participation to individualism and offers hope and strategy for the future. —C.F.

GUEST(S) ARE SCHEDULED TO BE IN ATTENDANCE FOR Q&A

This film is presented in loving memory of MARY LOU BROWN and JUDY GREENING SHEPHERD.