In the bustling streets of 2026, where digital distractions often keep our eyes glued to screens, a simple act of human connection stands out more than ever. Have you ever wondered why some people ...

When I was a first-year medical student, my classmates and I used to go down to the hospital cafeteria between lectures to buy snacks. The women from whom we bought them at the check-out counters were ...

A new book by Gillian Sandstrom explains the research behind why it’s good for us to talk to strangers and how to go about it ...

So many people are feeling lonely in the world today, struggling with community and connection, and suffering at the hands of screen-induced social anxiety, so much so that even conversations with ...

Growing up in a sunny clime, people wore colorful clothes (and less of them). Strangers held heads high, smiling and saying hello. I took this for granted until a friend visiting from a cold climate ...

Dear Annie: I’m writing in response to “Friendly Neighbor in Lincoln, NE,” who wondered why their greetings on daily walks are seldom returned by those they pass. When I was growing up, my mother used ...