“Experiences of loneliness are contagious, and that we need to pay attention to the larger social ramifications when people express fear or show other signs of loneliness. Contagion has enormous implications for how we think about social networks as well as such issues as planning neighborhoods, constructing front porches on houses and creating other social gathering spaces.”

 

So writes Greg Jones, the Dean of Duke Divinity School, in the latest issue of Christian Century. This thoughtful essay reflects on the release of a recent study of loneliness indicating that the experience of being lonely affects more than the individual, impacting communities like a thread that becomes disentangled from a sweater threatens the entire garment. The study might invite Christian consideration on how to build and foster community to safeguard against feelings of social isolation by members. I also wonder if the study speaks into the widespread popularity of internet “communities” such as Facebook and MySpace. To read this piece click here:

http://www.christiancentury.org/article.lasso?id=8161