what constitutes the common good in our modern world?

mark fisher, the theorist, writes in capitalist realism, that contemporary culture is caught in a cycle of constant reinterpretation. we recycle and remix ideas about what we once thought the future would be. he cites our desire for the halcyon memories of the 20th century delivered in 21st-century technology and forms. in design, this can be seen in the continual rebooting of mid-century modern or Memphis influences.

aristotle stated that to live well together in a “just” society, we need to cultivate citizens willing to engage in the public dialogue required for the common good. the conversation is not about achieving total agreement with one another, but finding the common purpose and means to frame a democratic society. the philosopher, Michael sandel, believes our modern world is caught in a “collective amnesia” without the meta-narrative to bind us.

in america, although we lack agreement on the highly divisive political talking points and suffer from the disturbing friction created by the farthest wings, I believe there is more that binds us. we want a healthy planet for our children. we desire safer streets. we appreciate job opportunities and investments in underserved and under-noticed communities. we benefit from affordable housing with easy access to public transit, healthcare, schools, and groceries. so, we can look in the rearview mirror, recalling only the sunny shores, or stare into the bright light ahead knowing that our collective energy is needed to navigate the bold new era.

how might we construct the new story to bridge a citizenry towards a shared future?

therein lies the work ahead.