Habits of the Heart: Individualism and Commitment in American Life

Brian Palmer, a successful businessman, experienced a shift in his personal values, emphasizing family over career after a demanding job and a divorce that led to self-reflection. He reevaluated his life’s priorities, recognizing the importance of balance between work and family. Despite material success, Brian faced an internal struggle to define what truly mattered to him, questioning the role of shared experiences and deeper connections beyond material achievements.

This inner conflict reflects a broader American dilemma between individual success and collective societal values. The concept of freedom, a core American value, often translates into personal autonomy but also brings challenges in forging meaningful community connections and understanding the common good. Similarly, the American perspective on justice, focusing on equal opportunity, struggles with addressing substantive societal disparities and envisioning a just society beyond procedural fairness.

Joe Gorman’s perspective, rooted in his small town’s traditions and community involvement, contrasts with Brian’s individualistic journey. Joe values success as a collective achievement, emphasizing family and community contributions over personal gains. Despite his dedication to communal values, Joe faces challenges reconciling his idealized vision of community unity with the evolving, diverse needs of Suffolk’s residents, highlighting the tension between traditional communal values and contemporary individualistic tendencies.