This episode is the first part of a very mini series I’m working on about technology and the commodification of human connection. I decided to do this episode because I wanted to try to define what we’re up against when we try to build community in the real world, and why it is more important than ever. A lot of research and writing went into this, as well as playing a little more with the audio form so I hope it’s a little entertaining.

We’re told we’re more connected than ever, at the same time people are more lonely than ever. This is a look at how tech like social media and algorithms have addicted us, isolated us, all while selling the idea that they are actually connecting us. I look at the history of this technology into the modern day and how over time capitalism and monopolization has taken are desire to be together and used it against us, creating a disease of lonliness while at the same time selling us the “cure.”

Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: a comprehensive 2023 study by the surgeon general, 72 pages

Get full access to Nowhere at nowherepod.substack.com/subscribe