Indeed, but this is not new. There is plenty of literature about one of the main allures (and perils) of moving to the city: being free from your neighbours’ judgement and relationships. For many, this is still a desirable characteristic. Arguably, there might have been recent developments that removed even the last shreds of compulsory relationships, but we already were 90% of the way there.
When it comes to relationships, cities just work on a pull model, where small towns worked on a push model.
Interesting idea, but most cities I’ve lived in have even closer compulsory relationships via homeowners associations. Even if you rent it’s hard to get away from your neighbors if you want that.
I grew up in a block in Europe. The equivalent body met once a month at best, you could even delegate someone to attend for you. I don’t think that’s anywhere near the sort of web you end in when growing in a small town, particularly if your folks have been around for more than a generation.
When it comes to relationships, cities just work on a pull model, where small towns worked on a push model.