Abstract
<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>The preface of States of Solidarity: How to Build a Society emphasizes the critical role of solidarity in addressing contemporary crises. It argues that solidarity, defined as the horizontal ties that connect people beyond kinship or friendship, is essential for building and maintaining trust, democratic legitimacy, and social cohesion. It highlights how the neglect of solidarity has contributed to societal fragmentation and the failure to create conditions for human and planetary flourishing. The preface outlines the book’s exploration of solidarity’s relationship with justice, trust, and care, and its application to three pressing challenges: climate change, economic governance, and digital transformations. By adopting a solidarity-focused perspective, the book seeks to reshape policy questions and unlock new possibilities for action. Concluding with a vision for a ‘good state’ in the twenty-first century, the preface underscores solidarity as a transformative and practical force for building resilient, equitable, and democratic societies in uncertain times.</jats:p>