The Beeb’s op-ed guest says, But the governmental-centred response witnessed post-9/11 is not the answer, and cost at least some people their lives,

After Katrina, the best reaction has been from private citizens, philanthropic organisations and religious groups. Government, especially state and local, has a responsibility in such disasters.

But the governmental-centred response witnessed post-9/11 is not the answer, and cost at least some people their lives.

and btw, I agree that we’re not “bowling alone”.

Matthew Spalding, writing at the BBC, states,

A few years ago, sociology professor Robert Putnam warned that Americans were “bowling alone,” losing touch with their families, communities and civic organisations.

When I first read Putnam’s book a while ago, I thought of another Putnam, Peter Putnam, who was an extraordinary man that continues to inspire many of us. Peter was actively involved with his family, his community, and several civic organizations.

If only Robert Putnam had taken the time to reach out to others instead of simply “studying” them, he’d have known better than to say “we’re bowling alone”. Because, obviously, we’re not.