Isolation

Relationships vital to health and well-being are under threat by modern life, which can isolate people from one another and lead to loneliness.

Ulrich Beck, a German sociologist, and the man who coined the word "individualisation", showed that as many of us are no longer members of groups (church, union, clubs) and have to construct our own lives, we become mistrustful and aggressive and with no-one to support us, lonely and frustrated.

Matthew Taylor, chief executive of the RSA wondered whether we can adjust over the longer-term, by developing a "truly global model of citizenship".

In response to neuroscience and scanning breakthroughs showing effects of isolation, rejection and despair on the brain, researchers have developed the "self-esteem initiative", including video games that aim to trick the brain into forming more positive mental images.

• Diversity/Isolation - there appears to be a growing trend towards "lifestyle tribes" - cut-off pockets of like-mindedness within towns and cities - of people who share the same ways of life, beliefs and political views.

• Isolation - a new study claims that between the ages of 20 and 40 people lose about one friend every year.

• Isolation - a new study claims that between the ages of 20 and 40 people lose about one friend every year.

• Isolation - a new study claims that between the ages of 20 and 40 people lose about one friend every year.