Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

Live debate now streaming on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and OpentoDebate.org.

Topics: Religion

Public Release Date: February 21, 2025

Former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy published an influential report indicating that the U.S. is experiencing a loneliness epidemic. Sixty percent of adults report feeling lonely, and eight percent report not having any close friends. While a range of solutions have been proposed, many argue that religion could be the healing, connective elixir. Those advocating that religion could cure loneliness note it has often provided individuals with regular social contact and opportunities for engagement, support systems to help others in their times of need, and a sense of purpose that can counteract feelings of isolation and insignificance. Believing in a higher power may also, in a way, offer a sense of permanent, unconditional companionship. Those skeptical of promoting religion as the answer argue that you don’t need religious institutions to foster connection — some find religion divisive overall and don’t buy into its organizing principles. They suggest that secular alternatives may be a better solution.

Given this context, we explore the question: Can Religion Cure the Loneliness Epidemic?

ARGUING YES:

• Harold Koenig: Director of Duke University’s Center for Spirituality, Theology and Health

• Chris Murphy: US Senator from Connecticut

ARGUING NO:

• Ruth Whippman: Author of “America the Anxious: How Our Pursuit of Happiness Is Creating a Nation of Nervous Wrecks” and “BOYMOM: Reimagining Boyhood in the Age of Impossible Masculinity”

• Dan Barker: Co-President of the Freedom from Religion Foundation

MODERATOR-IN-CHIEF:

• John Donvan: Emmy award-winning journalist