Sociologist and best-selling author Eric Klinenberg and commentator Aditya Chakrabortty debate new ideas for health, happiness, safety and healing our divided, unequal society.

Too often we take for granted and neglect our libraries, parks, markets, schools, playgrounds, gardens and communal spaces, but decades of research now shows that these places can have an extraordinary effect on our personal and collective wellbeing.

Wherever people cross paths and linger, wherever we gather informally, strike up a conversation and get to know one another, relationships blossom and communities emerge. Where communities are strong, people are safer and healthier; crime drops and commerce thrives; democracy is enhanced; and peace, tolerance and stability take root. Properly designing and maintaining this ‘social infrastructure’ might be our single best strategy for a more equal and united society.

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Festival of the Future City: Aditya Chakrabortty and Eric Klinenberg