I always get asked if my Sony readers are Kindles.Usually that opens up discussion about what ereaders are,now that the readers are so much cheaper,I suspect won't get that question as often,and will see more of them.
I enjoy reading,and do so frequently,especially if I am traveling or dining alone-don't feel any more or less isolated-people will still come up and ask either what you are reading (or what the device is).
From an ebook standpoint,I just enjoy having a far lighter handbag
and alot more reading material !