Are there synonyms for "misanthrope" that have a positive connotation? I'm looking for a word that describes someone who prefers to be alone, although she occasionally attends social gatherings, frequently engages in philanthropy, and doesn't dislike humanity. This topic has been addressed before in the Forum. "Anthrophobe" was suggested; but, "phobe" has a negative connotation. I've found the word "isolate" (noun), which appears to be a neutral synonym. Is there no such thing as a happy misanthrope?