# The Myth of the Individual By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2023-12-01 The individual looms large in America. Individualism is part of our national mythology. There are certain benefits that are derived through a focus on individualism. Among these benefits are the notions of personal responsibility and self-reliance. These attributes are helpful in life and one’s career. As beneficial as individualism is, there are certain limitations to a society based on it. For starters, one might question the degree to which a society based on individualism is a society. While individuals can be aggregated, it is unclear whether such an aggregation is a group or a society. Looking at our society, it seems there might be some benefit in cultivating an appreciation of communitarianism alongside our individualism. It should be noted that this isn’t a replacement. It isn’t that we should abandon our individualism. Rather, we should add to it. There is value in American individualism, but whereas there is value, it can’t solve all our problems. The solution to a lack of community within our society can’t possibly be more individualism. Communitarianism will naturally increase as we cultivate a sense of solidarity among us. It is also possible to utilize an aspect of our individualism, authenticity, as a basis for improved communitarianism. Each of us should know and be exactly who we are. Each of us can be ourselves. Freedom and autonomy are essential. In solidarity with each other, there is value in focusing on freedom and autonomy provided within our society for communal benefit. Too many of us as individuals are suffering physically, psychologically, and existentially. It’s a short step from individualism to isolation. We need each other to thrive and truly enjoy what each of us can contribute to our shared experience of our brief time on earth. #### Related Items [[Individuals]] [[Society]] [[Community]] [[Solidarity]] [[American]]