Sociology
The Impact of Digital Platforms on Local Community Cohesion
Quick fact
In a 2021 study of U.S. neighborhoods, residents who were heavy users of local Facebook groups were more likely to participate in community events, yet they also reported lower trust in their neighbors than those who interacted primarily face-to-face—revealing a paradox of digital connectivity.
Why this is interesting
We all know that scrolling through social media can feel isolating. But could the same apps that connect us to strangers across the globe also be quietly weakening the bonds that hold our neighborhoods together?