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Individualism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿงโ€โ™‚๏ธ
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individualism

[ษชnหŒdษชvษชdส’สŠษ™หˆlษชzษ™m ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sociology

The belief in the importance of individual rights and freedoms, often at the expense of collective interests.

Synonyms

autonomy, independence, self-reliance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
individualism

Best used when emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and self-expression. Often refers to a cultural or philosophical perspective that values the individual over the group.

  • Her individualism set her apart in a society that valued conformity
  • The artistโ€™s work is a testament to her strong sense of individualism
self-reliance

Best used when highlighting the ability to depend on oneself, especially in situations requiring resourcefulness and resilience.

  • His self-reliance grew after he moved out and started living on his own
  • The survival course taught the importance of self-reliance in the wild
independence

Appropriate when talking about freedom from control or support from others, often in a political, financial, or personal growth context.

  • She gained financial independence after years of hard work
  • The country celebrated its independence day with a grand parade
autonomy

Useful when discussing the ability or right of self-governance and making independent decisions, often in formal or institutional settings.

  • The university granted the department autonomy to design its own curriculum
  • Personal autonomy is essential for a fulfilling life

Examples of usage

  • His commitment to individualism led him to pursue his own path in life.
  • The culture of individualism in this society promotes personal autonomy and self-reliance.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

A social theory favoring freedom of action for individuals over collective control.

Synonyms

liberalism, self-determination, self-governance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
individualism

Refers to the habit of being independent and self-sufficient. This second usage emphasizes personal responsibility and self-reliance rather than collective action.

  • His lifestyle is rooted in individualism; he rarely seeks help and prefers to solve his problems on his own.
  • Individualism in this community means that everyone takes care of their own needs first.
self-determination

Refers to the right of individuals or groups (such as nations or ethnic groups) to make their own decisions without external influence or control.

  • The principle of self-determination is a cornerstone of many independence movements around the world.
  • Self-determination is crucial for maintaining cultural integrity and political autonomy.
liberalism

Use when talking about a political and moral philosophy based on liberty, consent of the governed, and equality before the law. It often emphasizes civil rights, free markets, and democratic governance.

  • The party's platform strongly advocates for liberalism, supporting free speech and individual rights.
  • Her views on liberalism influence her support for social policies such as healthcare and education reform.
self-governance

Describes the ability or right of a group, community, or nation to govern itself without external control. It often relates to political independence and democratic processes.

  • The region has long struggled for self-governance, seeking to manage its own affairs independently of central government control.
  • Establishing self-governance was a key goal of the new constitution.

Examples of usage

  • The philosopher argued that individualism is essential for moral development.
  • The political ideology of individualism values personal liberty and minimal government intervention.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • Philosophers like John Stuart Mill championed individualism, arguing that personal autonomy is essential for progress.
  • Ralph Waldo Emersonโ€™s essays promoted self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of individual thought and expression.
  • Existentialists like Jean-Paul Sartre expanded individualism by asserting that people must create their own meaning in life.

Culture

  • Individualism is often celebrated in Western cultures, particularly in the United States, where personal freedom is a core value.
  • Many pop songs and movies highlight themes of following oneโ€™s own path, reinforcing the importance of personal choice.
  • Art movements like Abstract Expressionism express individualism, showcasing artists' unique perspectives and emotions.

Psychology

  • Studies show that individualism can boost creativity, as people feel free to explore their own ideas without societal pressure.
  • However, it can lead to loneliness or isolation, as a strong focus on the self may reduce community ties.
  • Psychologists note that cultures emphasizing individualism often have different goals compared to collectivist cultures, such as prioritizing personal success.

Social Movements

  • The feminist movement often aligns with individualism, advocating for women's right to make their own choices in society.
  • Various civil rights movements fight for individual recognition and equality, highlighting the importance of personal identity.
  • Individualism has also influenced entrepreneurship, with many startups driven by a desire for personal innovation and independence.

Origin of 'individualism'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'individuus,' meaning 'indivisible' or 'not able to be divided'.
  • It emerged in English in the late 19th century, highlighting the rise of personal rights and freedoms.
  • The suffix '-ism' indicates a doctrine or belief system, suggesting individualism is a way of thinking.

The concept of individualism has deep roots in Western philosophical and political thought, dating back to ancient Greece. The idea gained prominence during the Enlightenment, with thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau emphasizing the importance of individual rights and autonomy. In the modern era, individualism continues to be a central value in liberal democracies, influencing notions of personal freedom, human rights, and self-expression.

See also: individualist, individuality, individualization, individualize, individualizer, individualizing, individually, individuals.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,239, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.