The Choices Before Us Social cohesion is important not only because it is good for economic performance. It is not just a means that we use to produce something that we value even more, such as economic growth.
People value the idea of a sense of community.
The tensions between globalization and social cohesion are real, and are unlikely to disappear of their own accord. If the tensions are not managed intelligently and creatively, they may lead to a breakdown in social consensus and erode the legitimacy of our institutions. If nothing is done, the danger is that globalization will contribute to social disintegration, as the nation is split along the lines of economic status, region, or social norms. This is not a pleasing prospect, even for those on the winning side of the divide who have little empathy for the other side. Ultimately, the deepening of social fissures can harm all.