Compassion Over Persuasion
Young People's Loneliness and Democratic Health: An Overarching Concern
Amid ongoing debates about studies that shape the political, scientific, and societal landscape, a significant question arises: is sufficient attention being paid to these studies by those most affected? A case in point is the Bertelsmann Foundation's "loneliness study" published in December, which underscored the psychological state of young people aged 18 to 35. The study found that over half of this demographic feels isolated.
As the future cornerstone of our industrial production, social systems, pensions, and prosperity, it is worrying that more significant action was not taken at the end of last year. The foundation has since warned that loneliness can pose a threat to democracy, with young people feeling disenfranchised by politics and believing they have little influence.
The fact that the foundation has raised this issue once more suggests that political decision-makers are not paying adequate attention. It is not a new finding that people who feel unheard, unseen, and neglected are more susceptible to populist, right-wing, and extremist ideologies.
Our independent, left-leaning, opinionated daily newspaper, "debate," has been publishing commentary, essays, and debate texts since 1979, often featuring opposing views within the broad left spectrum. Given the coalition of Union and SPD's constant emphasis on combating right-wing extremism, it is concerning that the term "loneliness" appears only briefly in the coalition agreement, and "youth" is scarcely mentioned. As a result, youth facilities, education budgets, and projects countering right-wing extremism may see reduced funding and potential closure. With such neglect, proclamations of support for youth, such as the proposed mandatory civil service and conscription, may lose their legitimacy.
According to enrichment data, addressing young people's loneliness is a critical facet of maintaining democratic stability and combating extremism. Strategies include promoting community programs, multi-generational centers, and education initiatives encouraging critical thinking. By increasing youth engagement in democratic processes and fostering a more cohesive society, policymakers can help reduce vulnerability to extremist ideologies, strengthening democratic resilience.
- The Bertelsmann Foundation's "loneliness study" underscores the importance of addressing mental health and wellness, specifically in young people, as feeling isolated can have implications for both individual health and democratic health.
- In the realm of general news, it's noteworthy that the neglect of mental health issues among young people, such as loneliness, can potentially lead to a rise in extremist ideologies, posing a threat to democracy and political stability.
- A discussion surrounding health-and-wellness initiatives, political policies, and the role of science in shaping our society should encompass the issue of young people's loneliness, considering its impact on mental health, democratic health, and the potential growth of extremist ideologies.
