Podcast: The Gray Area with Sean Illing (LS 74 · TOP 0.01% what is this?)
Episode: The cost of spending time alone
Pub date: 2025-02-03

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Americans are spending an historic amount of time alone, a phenomenon that is often referred to as an "epidemic of loneliness."

But are we actually lonely? Or do we prefer being by ourselves? And if we do, what does that mean for us and our society?

Today’s guest is journalist Derek Thompson, who, in a recent essay for the Atlantic, challenges the conventional wisdom around loneliness. He argues that Americans prefer solitude, and that preference presents a wholly different kind of challenge for the country.

Derek and Sean discuss the far-reaching effects of America’s antisocial behavior, including what it means for our society, our politics, and our future.

Host: Sean Illing (@SeanIlling)

Guest: Derek Thompson, staff writer, The Atlantic

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