Ideas Inside our loneliness epidemic
Jun 18, 2025
Join Carrie Jenkins, a philosophy professor and author, along with economics expert Marina Adshade, men's health advocate John Oliffe, and writer Mandy Lee Catron, as they tackle Canada's loneliness epidemic. They discuss how social isolation threatens public health and explore the impacts of modern life on connection. Topics like the importance of community ties, the nuances of eudaimonia, and the unique challenges men face in forming relationships come to the forefront. Expect a deep dive into the pressing need for meaningful conversations and a reimagined sense of belonging.
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Loneliness Rooted in Enlarged Social Worlds
- Loneliness is a systemic issue caused by the historical growth of social worlds beyond small, supportive communities.
- The increase in technological and social scale has decreased intimacy, stability, and belonging.
Romantic Ideals Fuel Isolation
- The monogamous romantic ideal funnels love needs into nuclear families, isolating individuals outside that structure.
- True love requires seeing others as they are, not as curated false images we project.
Men's Social Struggles and Loneliness
- Men connect often through beer and alcohol but yearn for deeper interaction.
- Relationship breakdowns and self-managed depression lead many men to isolation and substance use.
