John T. Cacioppo’s groundbreaking research topples one of the pillars of modern medicine and psychology: the focus on the individual as the unit of inquiry. By employing brain scans, monitoring blood pressure, and analyzing immune function, he demonstrates the overpowering influence of social context–a factor so strong that it can alter DNA replication. Most importantly, he shows how we can break the trap of isolation for our benefit both as individuals and as a society. Mr. Cacioppo is the Tiffany and Margaret Blake Distinguished Service Professor in Psychology

(49) Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection – John Cacioppo – YouTube