Tönnies' critique of modernity

Ferdinand Tönnies critiqued modernity for transforming social bonds from close, personal relationships ( Gemeinschaft) to impersonal, individualistic connections ( Gesellschaft). He believed that modernization, driven by economic and technological progress, eroded community ties, leading to feelings of alienation and social fragmentation. Tönnies feared that this shift diminishes trust and shared values, making society more transactional and less rooted in genuine social cohesion. His critique highlights concerns about the loss of meaningful, collective bonds in the face of rapid social and economic change.