Civic engagement is both a practice and a value that underpins democratic participation and social responsibility. Habits of the Heart examines the decline of civic engagement in the face of growing individualism, highlighting the consequences for democratic governance and community health. The book calls for revitalizing civic life by encouraging participation in public affairs, volunteering, and other forms of communal activity, arguing that such engagement is crucial for the sustainability of a democratic society and the well-being of its citizens.

Community in Habits of the Heart is presented as a counterbalance to individualism, emphasizing the importance of social bonds, shared responsibilities, and collective action. The book explores how communities form the backbone of American social life, providing support, identity, and a sense of belonging to individuals. However, it also addresses the challenges communities face in an increasingly individualistic society, including fragmentation and a decline in civic participation. The authors advocate for a renewed commitment to community values as a means to strengthen societal ties and promote a more inclusive and supportive social environment.

Community of memory refers to groups that define themselves not just by present interactions but by a shared history. This term underscores the importance of collective memory in shaping community identity, emphasizing that communities are rooted in their past experiences, traditions, and stories.