Getting close to intimacy:

Loneliness, a frequent phenomenon in Dutch society, is associated with a lack of intimate relationships. To understand and act on loneliness, conceptual research is needed. Sloterdijk’s Bubbles can provide valuable insights into the concepts of ‘loneliness’ and ‘intimacy’. However, Bubbles can be quite dense. To grasp Sloterdijk’s ideas better, Abbott’s novel Flatland may be helpful. This interpretative thesis investigates the degree of similarity between Bubbles and Flatland. A narrative analysis is conducted which includes quotes and thought experiments. Overall, Bubbles is found to be highly comparable and compatible with Flatland. Findings of this thesis can be applied to other disciplines.