The “loneliness epidemic” is now a familiar fixture of American public debate. Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy warned that social isolation carries serious physical and mental health risks. Researchers are reporting declining rates of dating, sex, marriage, friendship and community participation. Policymakers talk about disconnection. Employers talk about burnout. Therapists talk about attachment. Everyone agrees something is wrong. But the word “loneliness” only gets us part of