

Rapid Response: Loneliness at work, w/Noreena Hertz
Dec 3, 2020
Noreena Hertz, a professor at University College London and author of The Lonely Century, discusses the growing epidemic of loneliness in the workplace and its implications. She emphasizes the benefits of in-person connections over virtual ones, advocating for kindness and community as essential values in attracting talent. Hertz shares innovative strategies companies can adopt, like virtual lunches, to combat isolation and improve morale. She also underscores the need for leaders to prioritize mental health and foster genuine connections for enhanced productivity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
The Loneliest Century
- This century is the loneliest in history, driven by technology, societal shifts, and economic inequalities.
- Loneliness affects work, voting, and overall well-being.
Rising Loneliness
- Loneliness is increasing, evidenced by students' isolation and difficulty with face-to-face interaction.
- The rise of the "loneliness economy" demonstrates a market demand for connection.
Drivers of Loneliness
- Technology, especially social media, contributes to increased loneliness.
- Other factors include urban migration, decline in group activities, and a self-interested capitalist mindset.