Why Interconnectedness Matters

Interconnectedness itself is a cycle that encompasses many aspects of well-being. When we understand the true nature of ourselves, we better understand the true nature of society. We can then use that enhanced understanding to gain an even deeper understanding of both ourselves and society, and so on in a repeating cycle (Chernus, 2004). Connection to others benefits society by reducing violence and increasing compassion. If we can see the good in others, we can be more fully aware of their intentions and motivations, which can help us to relieve the suffering that goes on in the world. 

The Benefits of Interconnectedness 

Current research shows many benefits for interconnectedness. Basic human nature requires us to be involved with other people; strong social relationships lead to happier and longer lives (Sakurai et al., 2019). Emotional attachment and commitment to others has been shown to adapt beliefs, attitudes, and values of the group as our own (Phua, 2013). This attachment has a powerful effect on self-efficacy, self-control, and self-esteem. Similarly, social support provides aid to our struggles and promotes better standings in terms of depression, coping, and stress (Beaudoin & Tao, 2007). Richer ties to people and to nature are linked to longevity, resilience, and wellbeing. Using ~458k adults in UK Biobank, both the “structure” (network size/contact) and “function” (support/quality) of connection independently predicted mortality, underscoring that it’s not just how many people you know but how supported you feel (Foster et al., 2023). Even being in the presence of uplifting people can greatly improve our well-being. The natural solution is to strengthen connections with others around us. Researcher Ban Beuttner and his team provided evidence for this conclusion as they studied the world’s “Blue Zones”, which are communities where it is common to live to 100 years old in good health. Over the course of their journey, they found nine common lifestyle choices. One of the most important lifestyle choices was connecting with others in long term close relationships, which acted as a main contributor to that longevity of life. Here’s a video where Beutter discusses his findings:

Connection with others increases prosocial behavior and a belief that you can make a difference in the world (Cojuharenco et al., 2016). Sharing meaning with others gives us greater purpose and direction. You have probably noticed this in your own life; when you surround yourself with supportive people, the light in your life naturally increases. You likely feel yourself become more hopeful and transcendent (Haugan, 2014). This is because when we realize our inter-being, we can discover greater joy and well-being. Researchers tracked 5000 people for over 20 years in the famous Framingham Heart Study and noticed that happiness spreads through social networks—up to three degrees of separation. Friends, siblings, spouses, and even neighbors can pass it along, and happiness tends to spread more consistently than unhappiness. People with lots of connections were also happier than those on the edges of the network (Fowler and Christakis, 2008). 

Interconnectedness is supported by scientific, religious, and native worldviews. Extending loving kindness and compassion beyond our closest relationships to include all others allows us to experience a wider circle of connection and joy. These relationships include the wider circle or web of all living and nonliving things. All these creations enrich us and give our lives a sense of connection and meaning as we respond to the responsibility we have to care for them. We experience less conflict and have a mutuality of equality in our attitude toward them. We are filled with a sense of mindful presence and kinship that motivates us toward right action as we care for ourselves and the universe that we are all a part of. Because we are not separate, but interconnected, we can experience a deeper sense of happiness and well-being.