Solitude: The Science and Power of Being Alone
Author(s): Netta Weinstein (Author)
- Publisher: Cambridge University Press
- Publication Date: 5 Feb. 2026
- Language: English
- Print length: 354 pages
- ISBN-10: 1009256610
- ISBN-13: 9781009256612
Book Description
The average adult spends nearly one-third of their waking life alone. How do we overcome the stigma of solitude and find strength in going it alone? Whether we love it or try to avoid it, we can make better use of that time. The science of solitude shows that alone time can be a powerful space used to tap into countless benefits. Translating key research findings into actionable facts and advice, this book shows that alone time can boost well-being. From relaxation and recharging to problem solving and emotion regulation, solitude can benefit personal growth, contentment, creativity, and our relationships with ourselves and others. Learning what makes us better at spending time alone can help us move toward our best possible selves.
Editorial Reviews
Review
‘Evocative prose helps convey the shifting realities of solitude as experienced by both the interview subjects and the authors … It’s an illuminating take on a fundamental aspect of being human.’ Publishers Weekly
‘Grounded, credible, and highly readable.’ Elle Hunt, New Scientist
‘These authors are psychologists and researchers in the field of studying the meaning and purpose of solitude in human life. The publisher is a scholarly one, and the authors refer to and quote dozens of scientific studies. But you may also be surprised, as we were, at how practical this book can be.’ Jon M. Sweeney, Spirituality & Practice
Book Description
Explore the benefits and challenges of day-to-day alone time with the latest science and stories from around the world.
About the Author
Netta Weinstein is an internationally recognized psychologist and director of the European Research Council’s ‘Solitude: Alone but Resilient’ (SOAR) project. Her research focuses on motivation and well-being. She is also Professor of Psychology at the University of Reading and an associate researcher at the Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford, UK.
Heather Hansen is an independent science writer and author. She joined SOAR in 2020 to lend her expertise in interviewing and communication. She has won awards from the American Society of Journalists and Authors, the Society of American Travel Writers, and the Colorado Authors League.
Thuy-vy T. Nguyen is a pioneer and expert in studying solitude in laboratory experiments and investigating the factors that lead to different concepts of solitude. She is also Associate Professor in Psychology at Durham University, a fellow at Wolfson Research Institute for Health and Well-being, and principal investigator of the Solitude Lab at Durham University, UK.
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