I feel lonely when I feel like I'm surrounded by people who don't match my own level of self perceived intellect, whatever that is.
It is a set of expectations, isn't it? Your expectation about yourself, others, and the ability to interact together.
On the broader topic of degeneracy, however - haven't we all been over the fact that everyone in every generation complains about the youth being less able, being more care free, being less useful since antiquity?
In the past, younger generations were also physically more capable, mentally sharper, and emotionally more balanced than their elders. Is that still the case? Degeneration.
/insert an array of slurred speech, stumbled steps, and crazed glances as the unwashed masses wander along city streets.
Again, degenerates :)