Only being in the presence of others makes one feel a little bit less alone. The presence being digital makes it less effective in some ways but it still counts for something. Imagine not even having anyone to exchange a few likeminded thoughts with… HN, being a quite varied community could facilitate that for most.

But we indeed do need more than this for a fulfilling life. Lonelinese could as well be temporary and one could feel less alone in different ways.