As sentient beings, we are aware of ourselves and surroundings including family, friends, workplace and environment. Philosophers, have long grappled with concepts of social norms and how and why humanity (and others in the animal kingdom) form groups with formal and informal structures and rules.
Social sciences attempt to understand human behavior and predictions of future reactions to internal and external factors. As people form groups with similar concerns and goals, it is more likely to predict their response to a variety of issues. Political science uses these techniques to uncover core motivations of the electorate and respond to their concerns. Visceral issues including preservation of self and family are often used to invoke an intense reaction. At the apex of political rhetoric is hope and aspirations for the future. The nadir or inverse and negative side is populated with fear, hate and lack of faith in future accomplishments.
How we, as a society, respond to the stress and strain of changes in our environment – physical, mental and political – will determine the type and strength of our social contract. Our society depends on a set of rules to control behavior, enforced by a system of laws, courts and police. Ultimately, however, its structure is dependent on a general recognition of the existential quality of this structure to maintain our way of life. Created to be flexible and accommodate changes of lifestyles and attitudes, social contracts ultimately rely on the willingness and participation of all involved. Without control of aberrant behavior, a social contract will quickly unravel.
Spring is here and with it a season that celebrates renewal and growth. It can also be a time to rededicate ourselves to a social contract with each other and our communities. Open to amendments and revisions, this contract is one that not only invites participation, but demands it. As a democratic society, our social contract is only as strong as we, the people, make it. Our successes and failures are directly attributable to our willingness to pay attention and participate. Local government is the place to start by checking out the agenda for the next council meeting (published on line) to find out who and what is happening in your community.
“As soon as any man says of the affairs of the State ‘What does it matter to me?’ the State may be given up for lost.”1