Habits of the Heart

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This landmark exploration of America's "habits of the heart" delves into the traits essential to our national character, highlighting the tension between individualism and the need for community. Based on a comprehensive five-year study of various American communities, the authors reveal that Americans often struggle to articulate moral meaning in their lives, trapped in a vocabulary dominated by individualism. Interviews with a diverse range of individuals—spouses, managers, therapists, business owners, and civic leaders—illustrate the challenges of committing to others in a society that emphasizes personal autonomy, where many feel ultimately alone and solely responsible for their choices. As a reflection of contemporary society, this work provides a thought-provoking perspective on Americans' quest for tradition and meaning. It encourages readers to examine their values and the direction of society, prompting introspection about personal habits and beliefs. The contents include an introduction, discussions on private and public life, and a conclusion focused on transforming American culture, alongside an appendix on social science as public philosophy.