68 pages • 2 hours read
Habits of the Heart: Individualism and Commitment in American Life
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Book Brief
410
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1980s
1985
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Habits of the Heart by Robert N. Bellah, Richard Madsen, William M. Sullivan, Ann Swidler, and Steven M. Tipton explores the balance between individualism and community in American society. The authors analyze how Americans navigate the tensions between their aspirations for personal autonomy and their obligations to the community, addressing issues like individualism, community, and civic engagement to understand American cultural and social dynamics during the late 20th century.
Informative
Contemplative
Challenging
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
1,091 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Habits of the Heart by Robert N. Bellah is praised for its insightful analysis of American individualism and community, drawing on diverse interviews and sociological research. Critics appreciate its thoroughness and relevance, though some find it dense and challenging. Overall, it's a compelling read for understanding societal values and civic life.
Who Should Read Habits of the Heart?
A reader who would enjoy Habits of the Heart by Robert N. Bellah is likely interested in sociology, community studies, and American culture. They may have previously appreciated works like Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America or Robert Putnam's Bowling Alone, and have a keen interest in social and moral philosophy.
1,091 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Richard Madsen
Richard Madsen
One of the co-authors with expertise in sociological insight, bringing depth to the exploration of American social dynamics and individual autonomy.
William M. Sullivan
William M. Sullivan
A co-author who contributes to the multidisciplinary approach with a focus on philosophical analysis and the ethical implications of societal trends.
Ann Swidler
Ann Swidler
A co-author whose sociological background aids in examining the balance between personal freedom and communal obligations within American society.
Steven M. Tipton
Steven M. Tipton
A co-author who collaborates in the comprehensive analysis of individualism and its societal impact, bringing historical perspective to the shared project.
Alexis de Tocqueville
Alexis de Tocqueville
An influential political thinker whose work, Democracy in America, provides a foundational framework for analyzing individualism and civic engagement in American democracy.
Sheila Larson
Sheila Larson
An interviewee in the book representing contemporary American individualistic spirituality, exemplifying a trend towards personalized religious beliefs known as "Sheilaism."
410
Book • Nonfiction
United States • 1980s
1985
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.