The Loneliness Crisis

New York University professor and former investment banker Scott Galloway regularly discusses on social media the challenges faced by American men, including loneliness, lack of employment, drug use and decreased participation in dating and education. 

He points out that excessively playing video games, watching too much porn, routinely smoking pot and habitually drinking alcohol creates a cycle of social isolation, mental health issues, reduced motivation and a negative self-perception, all of which contribute to increased feelings of loneliness.

Galloway is leading the charge in raising awareness of the harmful “loneliness crisis” impacting young men. He identifies common factors contributing to the shift toward online interactions that have reduced face-to-face socialization, increasing feelings of isolation.

He contends that the prevalence of social media and the digital economy exacerbates loneliness by creating environments where superficial connections replace meaningful relationships.

Young men face declining economic prospects, barriers in education and restricted housing opportunities, such as living at home with their parents, which contribute to a sense of failure.

Societal changes, including shifts in the labor market and the economy, have left them struggling to find their place in the world. The mental health crisis among young men is severe, with high rates of suicide, addiction and homelessness.

The expectations and pressures from modern culture, including the unrealistic standards often perpetuated by media and online platforms, have made it harder for young men to navigate their social and personal lives.

Galloway predicts that AI might worsen loneliness by providing alternatives to real human connections, such as AI-driven companionship, which might deter individuals from pursuing genuine relationships.

He emphasizes the importance of rebuilding social infrastructure and fostering environments where young men can develop meaningful, supportive relationships. He advocates for empathy and understanding toward the unique challenges young men face today and calls for societal changes to address these issues holistically.

Galloway has also highlighted the importance of male mentorship programs and the need for more male exemplars to guide and support young men.