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The criticism that the man who withdraws and excludes himself from the turmoil and agitation of ordinary life for spiritual reasons is antisocial and selfish is a narrow, one-sided, and superficial one. If he uses the hermit-like retreat to improve his character and to foster resolves to amend his conduct when he returns to society, he will surely be a better member than before. Since society is composed of individuals, that which leads to their moral elevation cannot fairly be called antisocial. And since everyone benefits by it in the end, it cannot be called selfish.

-- Notebooks Category 3: Relax and Retreat > Chapter 5 : Solitude > # 139