Digital Kinship: How the Internet Is Reacting to the Loneliness Epidemic

Digital Kinship: How the Internet Is Reacting to the Loneliness Epidemic

For thousands of years, humans lived in tribes that defined kinship not as something biological, but as something you create. Today, people have fewer places to congregate, converse, and find belonging. The rise of technology and the shift towards individualism have led to a loneliness epidemic. Research has shown that “third places”—communal gathering spots that aren’t your home or office—are critical to social connection.

A recent survey found that nearly half of Americans always or sometimes feel alone or left out, while over half feel that no one knows them well. Similarly, in the UK, half of Brits over 65 consider the television or a pet to be their main source of company. These statistics highlight the increasing isolation that many individuals experience in their daily lives.

The changing dynamics of households also contribute to this loneliness epidemic. From 1970 to 2012, the share of households consisting of married couples with kids was cut in half, while single-person households rose from 13% to 28%. Additionally, a century ago, 75% of Americans older than 65 lived with relatives, but by 1990, only 18% did. These shifts indicate a trend towards individualism and a decline in traditional support systems.

However, the next 50 years will see a shift towards the collective, and digital connections will be the driving force behind this change. The internet has become a place where individuals can find a sense of belonging and create communities. Social eating and livestream sleeping are examples of how the internet reflects the shift towards authenticity and always-on creation/consumption. Online friends have become as important as real-world friends, blurring the lines between the physical and digital realms.

In the past decade, people's need for "status" online was prevalent, as seen through curated Instagram feeds and filtered selfies. However, the 2020s are about people's need for "belonging". This shift is evident in platforms like Bilibili, which originated as a hub for anime enthusiasts but has expanded to various interest-based communities. Bilibili's success lies in its user-generated content, commerce, and community. What sets it apart is the engagement and retention of its communities. By building friction into the community through a 100-question test for joining, Bilibili ensures that only superfans become part of the community. This exclusivity fosters a sense of belonging and loyalty among its users.

The economy as a whole is also becoming more community-centric. The best education companies are incorporating community into their products, recognizing the importance of human interaction and meaningful connection. Even industries that have traditionally been solitary are now emphasizing solidarity.