Part 2/12:
According to Thompson, records tracking socialization patterns have been kept since the 1960s, revealing a consistent decline in face-to-face interactions among Americans. Currently, individuals spend the most time alone compared to any previous point recorded. Although some may attribute this phenomenon primarily to the COVID-19 pandemic, Thompson emphasizes that this is a long-term issue, noting a gradual increase in solitude even prior to the pandemic. This growing trend aligns with sociologist Robert Putnam's argument in his 2000 book Bowling Alone, which lamented diminishing participation in communal activities and organizations.