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Extended loneliness. When hyperconnectivity makes us feel alone.
1Institute of Philosophy, Freie Universität Berlin, Habelschwerdter Allee 45, 14195 Berlin, Germany.
Ethics and Information Technology
|November 21, 2022
Summary
Even with many online connections, individuals can experience "extended loneliness." This loneliness arises from a profound lack of meaningful relationships despite hyperconnectivity in networked life.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Modern networked life often involves hyperconnectivity.
- Despite numerous online interactions, feelings of isolation persist for some individuals.
- Existing research on loneliness does not fully capture the nuances of digitally mediated social experiences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define and analyze a specific form of loneliness termed "extended loneliness."
- To explore the phenomenology of extended loneliness within the context of networked life.
- To examine how an abundance of online connections can paradoxically lead to a lack of satisfying relationships.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis drawing on Sherry Turkle's work.
- Application of the extended mind theory.
- Case study focusing on interactions with digital assistants in smart homes.
Main Results:
- Extended loneliness is characterized by the simultaneous experience of lacking and longing for meaningful relationships.
- Hyperconnectivity in networked environments can foster extended loneliness.
- Digital assistants in smart environments can serve as a focal point for understanding this phenomenon.
Conclusions:
- Extended loneliness represents a unique affective state emerging from the digital age.
- The abundance of online connections does not equate to relational fulfillment.
- Further research is needed to address the psychological impact of pervasive digital interaction.
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