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Loneliness and isolation in developed societies

Loneliness has become a social phenomenon of growing importance in today’s so-called ‘developed’ societies. Although, paradoxically, interactions between individuals are constant and even invasive, an enormous number of people suffer a painful feeling of isolation. Yet many others make the conscious decision to live alone.

In a world where human relations are tending to stop at work and sex, new forms of sociability are appearing, new ways of relating based on greater intimacy, solidarity and friendship: disinterested relationships, only existing for the pleasure of being together. These new forms of relating serve as a sort of safeguard against the superficiality of fleeting encounters while favouring close friendships.

Mary and Max therefore shows us that, despite the difference in age, social background and geographic origin, it is not only possible to channel the deep and eternal human need for affection and empathy, but that it is precisely this capacity that makes us more human.