We have build a cheap infrastructure for mass low quality interaction (the internet) which is principally parasocial. Generations ago we used to build actual physical meeting places, but we decided to financialise property, and therefore land, and therefore priced people out of socialising.
It is a shame because Pratchett was absolutely right.
Aren't mall/parks/arcade used to be cheap and comfortable socialising places? They are in my country and as per "Strange Things" were in USA. Malls are dying in USA because people decided they prefer to keep everything online.
It is a shame because Pratchett was absolutely right.