Philosophy of Loneliness project analyses the phenomenon of loneliness by philosophical means. Loneliness is widely recognized as a severe social problem and a form of emotional distress studied across multiple disciplines. Rising levels of loneliness are estimated to have long-term societal effects. Yet, there is no consensus on its definition, and the concept is far from self-evident. Current research often examines loneliness either as an individual emotional state or broadly as an effect of unjust social structures.
The project bridges the gap between the personal and the social by developing a new theoretical framework at the intersection of loneliness studies, phenomenology, critical phenomenology, and philosophy of emotion. It approaches loneliness as a way of relating to oneself through others - an experience of absence where meaningful connections seem unavailable. The framework enables analysis of how loneliness emerges in interaction and conceptualizes the emotional environments in which it forms. In this context, the project also explores experiential links between loneliness and antagonistic emotions such as anger, misogyny, and racist hatred, particularly in lone-wolf radicalization. By challenging individualistic conceptions, the project fosters deeper and more nuanced ways of understanding loneliness.
The project is funded by The Research Council of Finland.