Collectivism & Individualism in the Real World

Individualism and collectivism are not always mutually exclusive Individualism and collectivism are not always mutually exclusive. Most ideologies feature a mix of both sets of ideas, and some concepts or actions could be both collectivist and individualist. The majority of Canadians & Americans believe people determine their own success in life (belief in self-reliance)  However, a majority also believe gov’t should take care of those in need (belief in social welfare)

Entrepreneurs are examples of individualism at work, however they may create economic benefits for others through their ideas which benefits the collective interests of society. Modern liberalism emphasizes the importance of the individual and rights and freedoms, however it also addresses the unfair treatment of individuals through gov’t intervention. **During the Great Depression (1930s) governments became more involved in society and the economy to address rampant poverty.**

Social programs – gov’t run programs designed to help meet people’s basic needs Examples: public education, universal public health care, employment insurance, pension programs, etc. Collectivist Paid for through taxes Not everyone uses them (or benefits from them) to the same degree Gov’ts also practice collectivism through laws designed to prevent discrimination against minorities.

Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) Private organizations (therefore individualist) that focus on social issues such as poverty, environment, treatment of women, etc. Goals tend to be collectivist on either a national or international level Examples: Doctors Without Borders, Amnesty International, World Vision, Greenpeace