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Join or Die: Why Rekindling Social Capital in 2025 Could Save Lives and Communities

We used to be quick to say, “Sign me up!”—whether for the local bowling league, the newly formed chess club, or established organizations like the Elks or Rotary Club. But now, more often than not, we hear, “I’m just not a joiner.”

A new Netflix documentary, Join or Die, explores the consequences of this shift and why, in 2025, we should all reconsider becoming “joiners.” At the heart of the film is the concept of social capital—the many ways in which our connections with others strengthen not just our personal resilience but also the fabric of our communities and democracy itself.

Social Capital: The Lifeline We’ve Forgotten

Social capital isn’t just a feel-good concept; it has real, measurable effects on our well-being. As Robert Putnam, author of Bowling Alone, explains:

“As a rough rule of thumb, if you belong to no groups but decide to join one, you cut your risk of dying over the next year in half.”

The science behind this is clear: Joining even a single group fosters meaningful interactions, reduces stress, and provides emotional support—all of which contribute to better health and longevity. It also helps rebuild the connections and trust that form the foundation of a thriving community.

But we don’t get any of that when we “bowl alone.”

A Journey Through Connection and Decline

Join or Die uses Putnam’s personal journey—from small-town Ohio to Harvard—to frame its exploration of America’s unraveling social fabric. Through interviews, archival footage, and contemporary examples, the film vividly illustrates the decline of civic engagement and the weakening of community organizations that once held us together.

Putnam’s work on social capital shines through as the documentary delves into how networks of trust, reciprocity, and engagement lead to healthier, more vibrant societies. The hard truths are undeniable: declining PTA membership, shuttered bowling leagues, and the rise of individualism have left many communities fragmented and struggling.

Humanizing the Data

One of the film’s strengths lies in its ability to make the data personal. Statistics about the erosion of social capital come alive through stories of individuals and communities grappling with loneliness, isolation, and polarization. At the same time, the documentary offers hope, spotlighting initiatives where people are rebuilding connections and fostering a sense of belonging.

Interspersed with these stories are insights from scholars, activists, and community leaders, who expand on Putnam’s findings and their relevance today. This blend of academic rigor and emotional resonance makes the film both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving.

A Call to Action

Join or Die delivers a dual message of warning and hope. It highlights the consequences of eroding social capital: from worsening public health to increased political division. Yet it also offers a clear path forward. By investing in relationships, participating in local organizations, and fostering trust, we can not only improve our own lives but also contribute to a healthier, more connected society.

Whether you’re familiar with Robert Putnam’s groundbreaking work or encountering his ideas for the first time, Join or Die is a powerful reminder of the importance of human connection. It underscores the simple yet profound truth that the strength of a society lies in its people—and their willingness to join together.

Be a joiner this year. 

*Coming in February is our feature on local clubs and organizations that welcome joiners and the like.

About Linda Gross

Writer, photographer. Passionate foodie, lover of good books and storytelling. Lives in Globe. Plays in the historic district. Travels when possible.

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