As you note, individual freedom increased and number of individuals increased, but those increases also mean risk to the system since freedom means people being able to do things that are not always perceived well by society at large ( since they may be at odds with individual goals ). Some actions of individuals could be damaging to the society. If too many individuals take a path that is damaging, it becomes an actual threat to the system as a whole.
In other words, we either find a point that allows for society in general and individuals in particular to coalesce around ( in the past, American propaganda made you believe that as long you believed in some set of values, you were already -- mentally-- an American ) or attempt impose arbitrary way to create cohesion ( example: ensure National Anthem is played before each football game ).
I am not suggesting we take either of those paths or come up with a new one for two related reasons:
1. I am thankfully not in a position where I can make those kinds of decisions 2. While I see the issue you raise as an important, I am not able to offer a solution for it
“A house divided against itself cannot stand.” — Abraham Lincoln.