Loneliness - a problem for democracy?

Lecture with Prof. Dr. Claudia Neu (Head of the Department of Sociology of Rural Areas)
Discussion with Silke Engler (First District Councillor) and Prof. Dr. Beate Hofmann (Bishop)
Moderation: Dr. Lukas Kiepe

Loneliness is more than an individual feeling and a personal sensation. Loneliness is a social issue, because loneliness is always related to social structures and social changes. Loneliness can lead to withdrawal from social relationships and to physical and mental illness. Loneliness also has a negative impact on social interaction. This is because lonely people participate less in social and political life than people who are not lonely. Lonely people are less likely to vote in elections and are also more likely to engage in conspiracy narratives. Loneliness can therefore also become an "undemocratic feeling" that tends to weaken the cohesion of a society, forms of solidarity, loyalty and the common good.

In this event, we will explore the question of why loneliness is a problem for democracy and what measures can be taken to prevent social isolation.