Even former presidential candidate Lamar Alexander has joined the move for corporate community. These new postmodern hometowns could damage already weakening local ties. A Yankelovich survey says only 20 percent of people socialize with their neighbors several times a week. This new-style social contract lets employers boost morale and build loyalty without having to pay massive raises. These lifestyle benefits are also easily retracted if downsizing comes.
Corporate community fits the pattern of our age.
People's private lives become increasingly tied to temporary relationships based on convenience. No one expects to sacrifice their inner selves for their benefit packages, nor will anyone raise themselves in the traditions handed down by Microsoft Corporation. An in-house cash machine or gift shop may not be the end of the world, but their overall strain could put more pressure on already weak interpersonal ties.