I remember early in the first lockdown feeling some semblance of hope for humanity. Old friends were reconnecting, neighbours having a proper conversation for the first time. Community initiatives popping up.
That didn’t last very long. When I track the timeline from then to now, it’s clear to me little by little we’re losing our willingness and capacity to be in relationship.
I understand that people are tired. I understand that a conversation can feel like effort after a long day. But I’m struggling with where this leads. Shrinking our worlds down to the smallest possible bubble feels dangerous, even if it’s understandable.
I linked my latest essay about all this – loneliness, nervous systems and political consequences of isolation if you want to have a read.
https://open.substack.com/pub/charlottedelsignore/p/the-quiet-breakdown-of-relational?r=fadhy&
14 Comments
This essay explores a growing deterioration in everyday relational contact and asks what this trend might mean for the future of social cohesion, democracy and collective problem-solving. As work, communication and care become increasingly mediated by technology, economic pressure and chronic stress, how might long-term nervous system strain reshape how humans relate to one another? I’m interested in discussing whether rising isolation is a temporary adjustment or a structural feature of future societies and what risks or adaptations may follow
People don’t have hobbies or passions anymore. They watch fucking Netflix. And people are having kids that should not be having kids. The American dream is dead. Corporations have convinced everyone to spend every last fucking dollar on products no one needs. People are latching onto imaginary gods for comfort while hating anyone who’s a threat to their lifestyle. We are broken.
It’s a natural cycle of growth, similar to civil rights reform or any other turbulent time in history.
Relationships are being challenged because people (of all ages) are becoming more aware of their personal boundaries and rights. We’re beginning to cast aside another layer of generational trauma and expose “issues” that have been tolerated, or hidden, for far too long.
All of this turbulence creates an atmosphere of uncertainty, doubt, confusion and a lack of trust.
It’s impossible, and pointless, to form a relationship without trust.
The question you need to ask yourself is “Who do you trust, and why?”
The internet has fundamentally changed how we interact. We’re still adjusting to it. It’ll take at least a few more generations.
Yeah. Porn is fucking people up. Shitty parenting is fucking people up.
This article is pointless. The author, and Redditors in general, won’t ever come into contact with the answer because the answer involves addressing taboos.
Oh? You wanted to solve deep-seated societal disintegration without touching taboos? You’re part of the problem.
Well people don’t have places where they can gather and get to know each other without spending money. Hobbies? Those are expensive as well social media destroyed them with by pushing overconsumption and the mindset of side hustle. For example I enjoy photography I have a Dslr and a couple of film bodies, the online community for that is insufferable and full of gate keepers. The same happen with audio, books ect.
The internet was supposed to connect people, ironic that its driving them apart
When you worship people who have dark triad traits at levels far above the general population and only worship money to the detriment of community and believe/push that empathy is actually a sin, is it any wonder?
Jesus said something about wealth and entering the kingdom of God, something something easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle.
I have taken up knitting and crochet, but all the local clubs and groups for it meet in the middle of the day while I’m at work. There’s nothing after work or on the weekend. The only groups or communication is online.
And like some else pointed out, the third places really are disappearing.
Yes because we don’t have time and money to go and have them. This is direct result of capitalists greed.
Problem is internet shows what people/humans are capable of a lot quicker so people get cold feet quicker also
Down here in northern Mississippi, many people follow the [Gospel](https://www.gethisword.com) along with the Bible. Upon belief, we’re commanded to (a) individually love and serve others and (b) gather in churches to gradually become more like Christ and help our communities. We’ve steadily been doing that with some refusing to shutdown duuring lockdown, citing the spiritual and menral necessity of community.
It is the newer worldviews, from atheism to hedonism to capitalism, which promote self-centered behavior. Over time, those worldviews led to more isolation and exploitation. The effects have been very destructive. The media, whose sins are greed and lying, put their energy into stiring up fear and depression for ad views.
I encourage you to drop any of those worldviews and their practices due to damage you mentioned. Instead, put your trust in Christ. You have eternal life guaranteed at that point instead of God’s wrath for your sins. Then, Spirit of God will dwell in you which gives a deep peace and joy regardless of circumstances. He will lead you to others to connect with who will build you up. God will also reward obedience in eternity which is extra motivation.
Thanks to Christ, COVID lockdown was one of the best years of my life. I saw God move in so many situations while the world’s philosophies made our lives horrible. If anything, I’m even more convinced to trust Christ over them because He delivers *results*.
The Internet ironically divided us. Social media was supposed to be where we connected but it has turned into a side hustle of keeping up your appearances and watching the numbers grow.