Trends in American Society

The Barna Group has released their newest research, indicating some interesting (and possibly disturbing) trends in American Society.*

First, they mention how their study shows that we have a very narcissistic interest in ourselves while, at the same time, we distrust others.

Secondly, they noted an individualistic mentality continues to exist and lay behind the way most Americans act and react. However, almost paradoxically to this, we have a desire to progress with the rest of society so that we can be seen as following with and a part of “mainstream society.” As can be expected, this kind of lifestyle brings an increased feeling in loneliness; individualism does not allow people to fully connect with one another, no matter how many people they interact with.

All this, of course, has an effect on Christians and the way they perceive their faith, making a slow change for what it means to be a Christian in America. We do not, as a whole, have an interest in following a set specific doctrinal beliefs, instead, we are looking to build up our own, individual faith based upon our own specific circumstances in life. 

We must remember that even those of us who know the problems of the culture we live in still are affected by it. All in America must stop and ponder how much of what we do and how we justify ourselves and our opinions are shaped more by the culture we live in than any real substantial philosophical grounding. The very fact we all think our opinion on matters where we have little to no expertise should be heard by all seems to stem from our individualistic mentality.

What can we do to help move our society beyond its individualistic, egoistic foundation to a personalistic,  communio-based culture?

*I originally offered quotes from their website, until I saw their desire that people do not do so without asking permission to do so first.