How to Remake the World, Neighborhood by Neighborhood

In a 2024 Booked on Planning podcast episode, we explore the impact of caring relationships on transforming communities and addressing systemic issues with Mack McCarter, author of “How to Remake the World, Neighborhood by Neighborhood.” Mack’s book discusses the power of genuine connections and their ability to create resilient communities, drawing inspiration from historical studies and successful initiatives worldwide. By focusing on the relational foundations of society, readers are provided insights on fostering resilience and growth through meaningful connections.

At the heart of community transformation is the belief that love, commitment, and caring relationships can drive significant change. Mack McCarter shares how his background in pastoral psychology and experiences in counseling have shaped his understanding of relationships as the cornerstone of a thriving society. By adhering to the ‘rules’ of relationships, communities can mend and strengthen, addressing persistent issues like societal collapse and creating a more connected and resilient society. Drawing from the work of historical thinkers like Arnold Toynbee, McCarter emphasizes the importance of cultivating caring relationships to combat societal decline.

One of the key themes of the book is the concept of love extending beyond mere attraction to embody a deep commitment to the well-being of others. This understanding, particularly through the lens of agape, has the potential to transform individual lives and community relationships. Prioritizing relational foundations in community development results in success stories like that of University Elementary in Shreveport, where fostering caring relationships significantly improved social environments. The book also tackles the challenge of sustaining community care to address long-term systemic issues like homelessness, contrasting it with the immediate support seen during natural disasters. It’s easy to feel a call to help in times of environmental disaster, but longer drawn out social problems, like homelessness, suffer a lack of community support because its not such a drastic event.

In Mack’s journey of fostering global communities centered on care and connection, he reflects on the influence of thinkers like D. Elton Trueblood. His writings, including “The Incendiary Fellowship” and “The Company of the Committed,” have been pivotal in inspiring hope and commitment to this cause. Trueblood’s metaphor of America as a “cut flower civilization” serves as a reminder of the necessity of maintaining connections to foundational roots to sustain growth and vitality. By embracing collective action and shared belief, residents are invited to be part of a movement that aims to remake the world, one neighborhood at a time.

The essential components of personal growth that contribute to a more compassionate and competent society include physical, intellectual, emotional, skillful, social, and spiritual. Once an individual achieves these six competencies, it can lead to a healthier and more connected world. By fostering positive relationships and engaging the business community in supporting these initiatives, Mack’s organization aims to uplift entire communities and create a more connected world.

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