Key Takeaways:

• America faces a crisis of spiritual depth that risks its democracy.
• A new op-ed by Gov. Spencer Cox and Ian Marcus Corbin warns material wealth has led to moral drift.
• Leaders urge renewal of meaning, purpose, and reverence for the good.
• Communities must rebuild shared values to secure the nation’s future.

Why Spiritual Depth Matters Now

America stands at a crossroads. On one side lies growing material wealth. On the other, a void in shared meaning. According to Gov. Spencer Cox and Harvard’s Ian Marcus Corbin, this gap threatens democracy itself. They draw on President Calvin Coolidge’s 1926 warning that prosperity alone cannot sustain a republic. Indeed, when people focus only on goods and comforts, they can lose sight of deeper bonds. As a result, communities drift without clear purpose. Social ties weaken and civic pride fades. Moreover, an “epidemic of addiction” takes root in this void. Addiction here goes beyond substances. It can mean endless screen time, shopping binges, or other escapes. In each case, true connection and self-respect suffer. Therefore, the authors argue, Americans must ask who they really are. They must redefine what they value beyond money and gadgets. Otherwise, the nation’s experiment in self-rule may falter long before its 500th birthday.

The Call to Recover Spiritual Depth

To reclaim strength, the op-ed urges a return to things of the spirit. These include meaning, purpose, and reverence for the good. First, they call for honest reflection on national identity. Who do we want to become as a people? Next, they stress the need for shared rituals and traditions. Rituals can unite diverse groups around common goals. For instance, community service days or local festivals can renew bonds. In addition, they highlight the role of education. Schools should teach not just facts, but also moral courage and empathy. By weaving these lessons into everyday life, young people learn to balance ambition with compassion. Finally, they champion public spaces that inspire awe—museums, parks, and monuments. Such spaces offer moments of quiet thought and collective pride. In all these ways, we can weave spiritual depth back into the fabric of American life. As we approach 250 years since independence, this task grows more urgent.

What This Means for America’s Democracy

Democracy relies on citizens who share a sense of purpose. When people feel connected to larger goals, they vote, volunteer, and hold leaders accountable. Conversely, a loss of spiritual depth erodes trust in institutions. People grow cynical, disengaged, or easily swayed by extreme views. In turn, democratic norms suffer. Polarization intensifies when citizens lack a shared moral compass. Without it, compromise seems like betrayal. Yet a revival of spiritual depth can counter these trends. Communities with strong values resist demagogues. They build resilience against hate and fear. Moreover, they foster leaders who act for the common good, not just political gain. As a result, institutions become more responsive and fair. This is how democracy stays alive: through a well-informed, engaged, and morally rooted citizenry.

Rebuilding Spiritual Depth in Communities

Communities play a vital role in this revival. First, local leaders can create spaces for open dialogue. Town halls, reading groups, and community art projects allow people to share hopes and fears. When residents listen to each other, they find shared values. Second, faith groups and civic organizations can partner on social projects. Whether feeding the hungry or mentoring youth, joint efforts bridge divides. Third, businesses can adopt a purpose beyond profits. Companies that invest in employee well-being and community health inspire loyalty and pride. For instance, sponsoring neighborhood cleanups or free educational workshops shows real commitment. Additionally, families can model spiritual depth at home. Simple rituals like weekly family dinners or gratitude practices build strong bonds. Finally, technology can support, not replace, real connection. Virtual groups can spark in-person meetups that focus on service and learning. By combining these steps, communities can heal the drift. They can nurture shared meaning, renew civic energy, and safeguard democracy for generations to come.

FAQs

What is “spiritual depth”?

Spiritual depth refers to a sense of purpose, meaning, and connection that goes beyond material wealth. It helps individuals and communities find shared values and moral direction.

Why do Cox and Corbin link spiritual depth to democracy?

They argue democracy needs citizens who share common goals and moral commitments. Without this bond, civic engagement and trust in institutions decline, weakening self-government.

How can individuals help restore spiritual depth?

People can volunteer locally, join reading or discussion groups, and practice gratitude. Small rituals—like family dinners or community service—build shared meaning and empathy.

Can businesses and schools support this revival?

Yes. Businesses can invest in employee and community well-being. Schools can teach moral courage and empathy alongside core subjects. Both create environments that foster spiritual depth.