ABSTRACT
This conclusion presents some closing thoughts on the concepts discussed in the preceding chapters of this book. The book examines some of the major developments of our age, such as globalization, post-Fordism and detraditionalization. It argues that these processes are fostering greater insecurity, which is in turn producing more individualistic and private-orientated forms of behaviour generally to the detriment of local community life within advanced industrial societies. A public-spirited culture can help to create vibrant and inclusive local communities or neighbourhoods. In helping to revive local communities, a public-spirited culture can also serve to replenish social capital. A public-spirited culture also touches upon the problem of individual conduct. People cannot rely upon the emergence of a spontaneous social order to address the negative aspects of living in the late modem age. There is the need to devise strategies for fostering a public-spirited culture, or other forms of public policy intervention.
