Happy Singlehood charts a way forward for singles to live life on their terms, and shows how everyone-single or coupled-can benefit from accepting solo living. Based on personal interviews, quantitative analysis, and extensive review of singles' writings and literature, author Elyakim Kislev uncovers groundbreaking insights on how unmarried people create satisfying lives in a world where social structures and policies are still designed to favor marriage.
In this carefully crafted book, Kislev investigates how singles nurture social networks, create innovative communities, and effectively deal with discrimination. Happy Singlehood challenges readers to rethink how single people organize social and familial ties in new ways, and illuminates how educators, policymakers, and urban planners should cater to their needs.
Autorentext
Elyakim Kislev has a PhD in sociology from Columbia University and is a faculty member at the Hebrew University, specializing in minorities, social policy, and singles studies.
Klappentext
Despite enduring whispers, sideway glances, and blatant discrimination, men and women today are choosing to remain single-and are enjoying complete and joyful lives.
In this carefully crafted, thoroughly researched book, Elyakim Kislev delivers groundbreaking insights on the fastest growing demographic in the world: singles. Happy Singlehood investigates how unmarried people create satisfying lives in a world where social structures and policies are still designed to favor married couples. The book challenges readers to rethink how single people organize social and familial life in new ways, and illuminates how educators, policymakers, and urban planners ignore their needs.
Based on personal interviews, singles' writings, and widespread quantitative analysis, Happy Singlehood investigates how singles nurture social networks, create innovative communities, and effectively deal with discrimination. Showcasing voices of singles, Kislev charts a way forward to assist singles to live life on their terms, and explains how everyone-single or otherwise-benefits from the freedom to develop new and fulfilling lifestyles.
Inhalt
List of Illustrations
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. The Age of Singlehood
2. Happy Singlehood in Old Age
3. Defying Social Pressure
4. Sleeping Alone, Bowling Together
5. Singling in a Postmaterialist World
6. Work Hard, (but) Play Hard
7. The Future of Happy Singlehood
Conclusion: What Can States, Cities, and Social Institutions Do for Singles?
Notes
Index