This is such an important question. I think technology is both the cause and potential solution.

Some ideas: - Local community apps that facilitate in-person meetups (not just online chat) - Coworking spaces that actually encourage interaction (not just silent desk rentals) - Structured activities (book clubs, hiking groups, etc.) that give people a reason to show up

The key is creating low-pressure environments where people can connect naturally. Dating apps figured out how to get people to meet strangers - we need the same for friendships.

What approaches have worked for you personally?

A parody of a fictional New Yorker article, in which journalist Isaac Chotiner grills the administrator from Shirley Jackson's "The Lottery" about the civic benefits of ritual stoning.