The factors contributing to the choice of a hermit lifestyle are multifaceted and include both internal and external circumstances that influence a person’s life.

The Intricate Dynamics of Hermitage

The factors contributing to the choice of a hermit lifestyle are multifaceted and include both internal and external circumstances that influence a person’s life. On one hand, many people experience an inner sense of dissatisfaction with their position in society, which may be related to physical, mental, and social reasons. For example, one source notes:

"Factors explaining the choice of hermitage can be physical, mental, and social. Many hermits face a sense of dissatisfaction with their social position and status in society, experience feelings of personal economic inadequacy and poverty. Often there are physical and mental shortcomings, as well as the presence of a value conflict with commonly accepted rules or a complete absence of a value system. The possibility of combining different forms of deprivation allows for an examination of individual cases of choosing hermitage in their unique individual context." (source: link txt, page: 1052)

Alongside this, there is also a philosophical, and even spiritual, aspiration to escape the everyday hustle and bustle of the modern world. Studying the reasons for seclusion shows that disillusionment with public norms and material values often pushes a person to seek solitude as a way to focus on their inner processes and self-analysis. In one of the texts, it is emphasized:

"Studying the reasons and motives for hermitage reveals deep philosophical and religious underpinnings. Many people choose seclusion because they are disillusioned with modern culture, material values, and social norms. They strive for a simpler and more authentic way of life, where one can concentrate on spiritual growth and inner peace." (source: link txt, page: 162)

Regarding the reflection of such a position on an individual level, seclusion often contributes to intense self-analysis and personal development. Delving into one’s “self” allows for a better recognition of one’s true needs and aspirations, which often leads to personal growth and a more purposeful life. However, the authors also emphasize that excessive seclusion is associated with the risk of deteriorating mental health if the person completely disconnects from social contacts. Thus, it is stated:

"As one delves deeper into seclusion, internal processes such as self-analysis and spiritual growth become more intense. Many people choose hermitage to rid themselves of the distracting factors of the modern world and concentrate on the quest for the spiritual. However, excessive seclusion can lead to a deterioration in mental health, so it is important to maintain a balance between seclusion and social activity." (source: link txt, page: 1054)

On a social level, the hermit stance is perceived ambiguously. On one hand, such a lifestyle may provoke misunderstanding and condemnation from society, since withdrawing from social roles is often seen as a deviation from the “norm.” On the other hand, many hermits make a significant contribution to culture and spiritual heritage, opening up new avenues for understanding life and human nature. This is reflected in the following comment:

"Hermitage also has its own social consequences. People who have withdrawn from society may face misunderstanding and condemnation from those around them, as their way of life is often regarded as abnormal or strange. However, on the other hand, such individuals may make a significant contribution to the cultural and spiritual heritage of society, opening new paths to understanding life and the nature of human existence." (source: link txt, page: 162)

Thus, the choice of a hermit lifestyle is determined by a complex combination of factors—from personal physical and mental limitations to deep disillusionment with the established social order. On an individual level, such a stance can foster deep reflection and self-development, although it is associated with the risk of isolation, while on a social level it elicits contradictory assessments: on one hand, as a means of establishing new forms of cultural and spiritual self-expression, and on the other, as a violation of customary norms of public life.