In the first chapter, Putnam argues that the US, a melting pot of religions, remains whole because Americans interact with and are close to people with different upbringings. Through “Faith Matters Surveys,” valuable data on religiosity has been gathered. One point that stood out to me was when the author explained how sometimes “[religious] intensity actually matters more than flavor” (21). While it makes sense that those who share faith could form a bond, it might be one of the only things they have in common. However, I agree with Putnam. I have noticed that people with strong focuses on their respective religions can often relate to each other. From frequent attendances at religious services and prayers before meals to community volunteer
