We are a social species and I would contend one of the most basic human needs is to belong, to fit in, to be needed, but this has been badly distorted and misunderstood in Western liberal societies

In a healthy society everyone has one or more roles to play, mother, father, teacher, guardian, storyteller, artist, healer, a role which is at once a sacred obligation but also a sacred opportunity, for you the individual have been uniquely formed or ordained for these roles

The reproduction of society unfortunately requires that most of us be replaceable, cultures often correct for these deficiencies with elaborate ceremonies and rituals to confer duties, recognize their transcendent significance and honor the role bearers

But contemporary society has liberated us from most of the sacred duties, we don't have as many kids, we are fungible employees on short or no contract, our civic institutions have decayed, very few of the old ceremonies remain, what exists is horribly impersonal (eg graduation)

What we have now is affirmation - we see you, we hear you, your person and concerns are valid - but affirmation is thin gruel compared to the old networks of interlocking needs, obligations and ceremonies, people affirm you one day but the next they are through with you

I think this might be part of what is driving the rise of identity concerns across the political spectrum, an unconscious attempt to construct new rituals and institutionalize the ceremony of recognition, but unless it balances recognition with sacred duty imo it is bound to fail