Can't both models for work exist at the same time? At my job there's a 'work as much remote as you want', but for similar reasons mentioned above, I tend to work more at the office. Am I forcing others to join me? No. I simply assume that those that come to the office, enjoy being there. Whatever their reason might be, doesn't matter. The fact that you are referring to what to me seems like a basic human need as some kind of a service is frankly a bit absurd. John Doe wants to be a cashier because he enjoys seeing and talking with different people. Do you send him a bill after coming back from the grocery store?

The issue is that back to office people seem to wish to make that mandatory. John Doe can be a cashier all they want, people shop online anyway - because we have lives outside offices and we dont want to spend them wasted commuting. John Doe is a dying breed unfortunately.

Oh yeah I think it’s a basic human need, but not one I need to get at work. The workplace is a monetized environment. I provide a service and I get paid for it. If I’m not getting paid I’m not going to be there and will put my energy to much more meaningful endeavors. The emotional labor of providing camaraderie and mentorship in an on-site location is an add-on service from me for an extra fee.

People who want to be in an office should have it available or work for companies that can provide it. People like me can avoid it or only do it when the paycheck is right.

My family is my family, my friends are my friends and my coworkers are my coworkers.

Surely the answer is just to have some companies be remote, and some be office based. IMO the big flaw with what companies are trying to do right now is mix these.

I specifically said no one should be forced to come into the office, just not discount the desires of people who need office socialization.

Zoom absolutely does not count.