Unpacking our generational fear of codependency

It’s liberation from the idea that we can self-optimize ourselves to the point of not needing anyone else. That if we work hard enough to survive in a competitive economy, we’ll be able to buy, order, or summon anything we might need within 24 hours, and that is somehow progress. That instead of asking for help and support from the people and frien

Capitalism: we are taught that love is about belonging to one person or community, and we must contort in order to ensure continued belonging. We are taught that our value is in what we can produce, and emotions impede production.

the new desire for intimacy “has its roots in alienation caused by social fragmentation under capitalism”: The erosion of wider networks of support has meant that people increasingly seek a stable source of care, emotional fulfillment and validation in their partner.