How Market-Driven E-Commerce is Straining Our Human Connections: Insights from Hosabale

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale recently shared his thoughts on how e-commerce affects our relationships. Speaking in Mumbai at the launch of Ashok Modak’s book, “Integral Humanism: A Distinct Paradigm of Development,” he argued that a market-driven lifestyle is weakening social bonds.

Hosabale believes that shopping online makes interactions less personal. He explained, “Today, if I want Modak’s book, I can simply order it online. It’s easy. But it used to be different. Back in the day, shopping involved a deeper connection with local traders, who knew you and your family. That kind of relationship is fading away.”

He voiced concerns about the impact of this shift, saying it’s more about transactions now than genuine connections. “Will a faceless company like Amazon ever understand trust?” he asked. According to Hosabale, in places like the United States, this disconnect has become even more pronounced.

He asserted that our current approach, focused on government welfare and market-driven living, isn’t sustainable for a healthy society. “We rely heavily on technology and convenience, but we need to consider how these choices impact our environment,” he stated.

Hosabale also emphasized the importance of values in education, urging that new knowledge must foster community. He contrasted the Western focus on individualism with alternative models like Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness, which values societal well-being alongside nature.

This perspective is increasingly relevant today. A 2022 survey by the American Psychological Association found that 61% of participants felt isolated. This loneliness is linked to the rise of digital interactions over face-to-face ones.

As our lives become busier and more technology-driven, it’s crucial to reflect on how we can preserve meaningful connections. Building relationships is not just important for personal well-being; it’s vital for a healthier society. The path forward may require a balance between embracing technology and nurturing the human spirit.



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