Author's note: Progressive released this commercial in 2020. I wrote the first column in 2021, and updated it in 2025 and then again in 2026. Progressive Insurance recently released a commercial called “ Neighborhood Mayor .” In it, a cheerful and hyper-involved neighbor chats over hedges, waves at everyone walking past, and seems to have an impressive knowledge of what’s happening on her street. The punchline of the ad, of course, is that she’s gone too far — that her level of awareness is intrusive, over-the-top, and vaguely creepy. It’s funny, and humor absolutely has value. Sometimes humor can surface important issues. But it’s also shaped by the cultural moment we’re living in — a moment where “good neighbors” are praised most for keeping to themselves, minding their own business, and not bothering anyone. And that’s where Progressive’s message misses the mark. Engagement vs. Meddling — We’ve Lost the Distinction There is a real difference between being engaged and being a...