Individualism

Individualism: definition

Individualism emphasises individual freedom and personal achievements, independent of a collective (and sometimes disregarding it). It's considered one of the most important societal influences today, especially in American and European cultures. As a concept, you could apply individualism to many fields, such as economics, sociology, philosophy, theology, and politics.

Individualism carries positive and negative connotations in the political landscape. Fundamentally, individualism opposes collectivism, which can cause conflict when it comes to nation-building and governing.

The History behind individualism

The first use of the term individualism was in the aftermath of the French Revolution. It held a negative connotation as it was associated with selfishness.

Most politicians used it to describe social instability and general anarchy. However, the philosophy behind individualism was already present long before the French Revolution, and in fact, informed some of the driving values behind it. Let's chart the history of individualist thinkers.

Fig. 2 - Maximilian Robespierre, an architect of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution

Political theory of individualism

There have been many political writings on individualism. These span several centuries and break down the concept in different ways. Let's examine some of the important thinkers involved in theorising individualism.

Individualism in political science

In chronological order, let's break down the fundamental history of individualism as a political philosophy by looking at some critical works.

Spawning out of these various theories, Frenchman Alexis de Tocqueville wrote about the United States as an individualist society in the nineteenth century.

Difference between liberalism and individualism

Liberalism is a political ideology rooted in individualism. As a reflection of the latter, liberalism mirrors many core beliefs of individualism, such as limited government, freedom of economy, and individual rights.

While extreme forms of individualism, such as Libertarianism, can completely erase the government, Liberalism takes a moderate approach, recognising the importance of a sovereign entity that protects individual rights to maintain peace. It exchanges some natural freedoms for social order.

Fig. 2 - Liberalism and Individualism, StudySmarter originals

Liberalism is grounded on the belief that individuals are rational and, therefore, can exercise freedom under nature. Thus, when individuals consent to a government and civil society, they will do so as long as said government protects their natural liberties under the rule of law.

Individualism justifies many liberalist beliefs, as ultimately, both value the individual more than the society. You could view liberalism as a moderate take on individualism that values the necessity for a social organisation without abandoning the fundamental importance of each individual.

Liberal examples of individualism

While some areas of Europe held individualistic tendencies in contempt, Germany, England, and the United States are examples of countries that quickly assimilated individualism into their social and economic structure in the twentieth century, particularly after World War II.

Germany has a unique capitalist model, with a free market and protection for private property. However, it does have a degree of government regulation to prevent businesses from abusing the market. Germany is also famous for being a socially conscious nation, with an emphasis on welfare.

Fig. 4 - Former German chancellor Angela Merkel

In the United Kingdom, the free market was introduced as an alternative to the post-war economic recovery plan after the industry was nationalized. Conservative Keith Joseph introduced free markets as an idea, and throughout his career, he influenced conservatives to adopt and encourage free market policies.

The U.S. adopted a liberal market influenced by Laissez-faire economics during the office of President Ronald Reagan. These policies are currently called 'Reaganomics', and its four pillars are:

• Reducing government spending.

• Reducing the federal income tax for individuals and businesses.

• Reducing regulations on businesses.

• Supporting slower money growth in the economy to reduce inflation.

Their high regard for private property also represents their desire for individual