The Anti-Social Century

ABC 208: On why Americans are spending more time alone than ever

If you’re a reader of this newsletter, you’ve likely heard of political scientist Robert Putam’s famous Bowling Alone theory about the decline of community groups in American society. But there’s one aspect of Putnam’s theory that I hadn’t understood until recently.

It wasn’t that Americans weren’t leaving the house. In fact, at the time Putnam gathered his data, more Americans were bowling than ever—they were just simply choosing not to bowl together.

In the years since the pandemic, I’ve noticed a similar trend—both in myself and society at large. I rarely meet up with friends for casual drinks. Restaurants are littered with tables for one. Pet owners spend more time actively engaging with their pets than in face-to-face contact with friends of their own species.

It’s not just the pets, the AirPods, or the agoraphobia; Americans are choosing to spend more time alone than ever. This week's piece documents one of the most important trends of the 21st century. It’s one of those sweeping articles that brings together the technological, sociological, and political forces that brought us to this point. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it.

Here’s the piece: The Anti-Social Century

In other news, 👋 to all the new subscribers who found The Article Book Club after watching the TED Talk. I found this list of resources to be helpful if you’re looking to support those affected by the LA fires. And I shared some personal news on Instagram yesterday :).

Warmly,
Simo 

P.S. Inspired by the excellent Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown, the song of the week is, in my opinion, his most beautiful song. The full songs of the week playlist is here.