Exploring Existential Loneliness in the Digital Era among Philosophy Students

Abstract

Loneliness in the digital age has become a pressing concern across psychology, sociology, and philosophy. This study focuses on the existential aspects of loneliness among philosophy students, a group deeply engaged with questions of meaning and identity. Using an interpretative phenomenological approach, it explores how students experience and interpret existential loneliness in a hyper-connected environment. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and reflective diaries with twelve participants and analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis. Four central themes emerged: the void in digital interactions, the paradox of hyper-connectivity, the pursuit of authenticity in digital identity, and loneliness as a source of reflection. Findings indicate that digital connections can intensify isolation while also fostering philosophical self-awareness. This study contributes to understanding loneliness as an existential experience and highlights phenomenology’s value in examining subjective life in digital contexts.