In the lecture, we explored the ideology that is solipsism. Solipsism offers that life is a sole experience, or a figment of some other being’s dream or imagination. Under this ideology, knowledge is subjective, given that the lens through which we experience and learn is also subjective. Whether or not we accept solipsism, isolation is a true and common experience. It is important to distinguish isolation and solitude. In this sense, isolation is long-term and a response as opposed to solitude which is short-term and a choice.
As described in “Effects of sensory deprivation in psychiatric seclusion and solitary confinement” (Grassian and Friedman, 1986), isolation is destructive, leading to dissociation, derealization, and other forms of cognitive deterioration. The gradual decomposition of the psyche as a result of isolation can be seen in “Where is Everybody?”, the series premier of The Twilight Zone. In the episode, an unnamed solider is wandering around a seemingly empty town. He searches in a café, a shop, a jail, and a movie theater, only to be met with himself. In searching for other people, he also searches for clues about his own identity. He figures out he is in the Air Force, but not much else. Viewers watch as the unnamed soldier displays stimulus hunger, auditory hallucinations, memory difficulties, and finally aggression. At the end of the episode, when he is completely distraught with no hope of resolution, viewers can see he is in a simulation experiment run by military officials. He is woken up and viewers realize he has been in that state for 2.5 weeks for the purpose of preparing for space travel.
“Where is Everybody” is an episode I have seen multiple times, but not through the lens of philosophical application. Actively watching it, with the knowledge of solitary confinement experiments and solipsistic ideology, new elements stood out to me. One of these elements was the symbolism of the eye. Towards the end of the episode, the soldier sees a sign with an eye on it and this triggers his final panic. It was interesting to me how he desperately sought out another person or sign of life the entire episode, but when he finally felt seen (albeit a drawing), he panicked. This was reminiscent of the stages described in “Effects of sensory deprivation…” (Grassian and Friedman, 1986), where isolation first triggers stimulus hunger and manufacturing but develops into confusion and aggression. After extended isolation, the need for human connection deteriorates and is replaced with paranoia. This is something that has been seen during and after the pandemic. The self-containment of quarantine and social distancing has now morphed into extreme divisiveness and animosity in public and social spaces.
Another element that stuck out to me was how Rod Serling’s personal experience inevitably layered itself into the episode, just as the main character’s waking life layered itself into his simulation. Serling served in World War II and attempted to reintegrate into a society that had virtually no understanding of war-related trauma. Additionally, Serling was an artist and deeply-feeling individual, which added to what I would imagine was extreme emotional isolation. Loneliness is not always physical; it can often be psychological and emotional.
In my personal experience, isolation and loneliness has become a familiar occurrence. I have always felt alone in my feelings and perspectives, whether it be a disconnect from family members or from friends. This isolation in perspective was largely unconscious for me, until the last year or two. It was recently that I realized my unique ambitions and values are more than little differences, but rather significant isolating factors. I want to be an artist of various mediums and devote my time to writing, filming, photography, collaging, dancing and reading. This has isolated me from other people my age who have been heavily affected by the pandemic. It seems most young adults now prefer to be alone, or if they do venture out to socialize, they prefer to stay inside and doom scroll social media. It is difficult to find someone who not only values expression and art, but is also willing to leave the house and engage in creativity. Additionally, many people are limited by the social anxiety that comes with expressive art. Going out to take photos or film or dance invites the possibility of criticism and embarrassment, and subsequently requires the mental strength to overcome these limiting beliefs. I feel incredibly alone in my triumph over these beliefs. I can do creative things by myself, but the connection piece is so fulfilling.
In my family and friend group, I have become known for doing creative and odd things, which is fulfilling in an identity sense, but is also isolating and frustrating. As I look at graduate schools, one factor I am prioritizing is the location of the schools. I would prefer to be in a larger city with significant creative opportunities, such as San Francisco or New York. I am going to graduate school for an education, but also community.
“Where is Everybody?” is an episode about isolation, but one that connects individuals who have experienced it. As someone who is currently experiencing it, the episode resonated deeply and informed my path forward in life.
No ratings yet.
You must be logged in to rate this post.