Thinking Out LoudDavid Brooks’ farewell column for the New York Times made for sobering reading as he reflected on the state of his nation. He lamented a decline in faith—religious faith, faith in institutions, trust in democracy. Brooks feels that this decades-long trend has produced a kind of nihilistic cynicism, making America a “sadder, meaner, more pessimistic” country.
Brooks highlights decades of hyper-individualism, alongside the decline of interest in theology, literature, art, history—elements of civilisation that attend to the soul. In addition, the loss of a shared moral order, creating a naked public square where no agreement can be reached on what is true, beautiful and good.
These trends represent a loss of the foundation on which to build community, civic strength and individual flourishing.
It got me thinking about Australia. We have some similar trends like alarming stats on loneliness, especially among young people. Polarisation might not be at U.S. levels but it’s a growing phenomenon worldwide. Economic pressure and unaffordable housing are making large swaths of our population feel unsettled and understandably resentful. And, estranged as so many of us are from a substantial story that can meet our spiritual longings, plenty are exhibiting a kind of existential hopelessness.
What’s the antidote? David Brooks believes America can recover from its current malaise with, yes, better political leadership, but more profoundly, by investing in a type of cultural renewal that upholds the dignity of each person, making them feel seen, heard and respected.
I think most Australians would feel we still have these “humanising” forces here. But we surely need more of them. Along with serious engagement with the deeper questions of God, meaning, purpose and grace.
This Thinking Out Loud was first published on Facebook.