The mating couple is considered as both the origin and the foundation of a strong social self. Despite increasing self-realization, the individual always is in need of being justified through an intimate relationship in which both partners accept one another such as they are. In view of the process of global urbanization, this book shows how empathy and reliability are the royal road to overcoming existential loneliness. (Series: Development in Humanities, Vol 14) [Subject: Sociology]