Psychology
The Role of Third Places in Maintaining Social Cohesion
Quick fact
A 2017 UK study found that people who regularly visit a 'third place' like a café or community center report significantly higher life satisfaction and are more likely to trust their neighbors, even after controlling for income and employment.
Why this is interesting
Where do you go when you're not at work or home? That local coffee shop or neighborhood park might be doing more than just serving lattes—it's holding your community together.