[presidentscroob]

Community (solidarity, cooperation, concern for others and knowing one's neighbors) is in steep decline in most of the US for many reasons, and especially in Silicon Valley because the vast majority of its denizens aren't settling permanently but are just in town temporarily to earn an income, so they care less about their surroundings or anyone else but themselves. Furthermore, higher income leads people to care less about others. (UC Berkeley Monopoly experiments)

Possible solutions:

- There ought to be a modern replacement for churches (the Atheist unchurches, multi-denominational churches), which were the focal points of communities for centuries.

- Civic involvement in local law-making and local concerns.

- Putting screens away to prioritize human interaction.

- Revive the art of small-talk.

- Less polarized/political interactions, seeking understanding of others' points of view (you can't persuade true believers of anything new if they're already in violent agreement).

- Take the lead to create new leagues for group activities: bowling, skiing/snowboarding, ultimate frisbee, etc.

[traderjane]

In order for people to be in a town permanently the town must provide sufficient and affordable living opportunities for all its citizens. The town must also have a robust vision for young professionals, family life, and senior care, otherwise it's a town which cannot handle the full path of life.