The new pandemic of the developed world: ‘Singlehood’

Throughout human history, forming a pair was not only a social custom but also an essential reality. However, the tradition of marriage or relationships is now rapidly declining. In many developed countries, the trend of singlehood seems to have taken on the form of a new pandemic.

Among Americans aged 25 to 34, the number of men living without a partner or spouse has doubled over the past five decades, reaching 50 percent, while for women, the number is 41 percent.

According to The Economist, from 2010 onwards, in 26 out of 30 wealthy countries, the number of people living alone has increased. If the pairing rate had remained the same as in 2017, there would be at least 100 million fewer single people in the world today. This trend is being referred to as a “relationship slump” globally.

Some experts view this as a sign of social and moral decline, while fashion magazine Vogue sees it as a “commendable symbol of self-reliance.” For ambitious modern young women, having a boyfriend is now considered “embarrassing.”

Being single has given women more freedom. Financially independent women are less willing to spend their lives with unworthy or abusive partners. However, loneliness also intensifies.

Various surveys show that 60 to 73 percent of people actually want to be in a relationship. In a 2019 U.S. survey, although 50 percent of singles were not actively looking for a partner, only 27 percent said they enjoyed being single. Others may have given up due to not finding a suitable partner.

There are multiple reasons people fail to pair up. Social media and dating apps have created unrealistic expectations. Political divides are another major issue, with men leaning right and women leaning left. Additionally, spending more time in front of screens has led to a lack of social skills.

Even in Nordic countries (Finland and Sweden), the trend of singlehood shows no sign of decreasing. This may further lower birth rates and create additional problems. A world with fewer couples and fewer children could become more isolated and dangerous.

Some young people have reached the point where they are willing to engage in robotic love with an “AI partner.” An AI partner is patient and does not interfere with personal tasks, potentially increasing the trend of singlehood.

To cope with these global changes, everyone from construction companies to tax departments needs to be prepared.

Source: The Economist

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