Understanding Collectivism and Individualism The top ten things you should know

Collectivism Individualism 1

Collectivism

Historical Understandings Collectivism 2 identity based on family/group membership (tribal) Cave Man – could only survive by working with the group; Aboriginal societies – e.g. Potlatch on the West Coast Early Christians – had all things in common

3 Values of Collectivism Government is seen as a positive force that can help by controlling society 3

Advantages of collectivism 4 Advantages of collectivism The needs of the group come before selfish motives Everyone works together, so if you get into trouble the government has the resources to help you More economic security as the government will control the business cycle Cooperation = sharing ideas and effort to make a job easier Collective norms means we are more considerate of others Public property ensures that everyone has access to resources (and protects the environment

Disadvantages of collectivism 5 Disadvantages of collectivism Collective responsibility means that the whole group takes responsibility for the actions of individuals who may be incompetent Not everyone contributes to the same degree, yet everyone gets the same compensation Collective norms can stifle individual expression There are less economic choices and freedom People can have less concern or respect for property that they do not own

Individualism

Origins of Individualism 6 Modern ideas developed the Enlightenment Renaissance (resurrection of classical Western philosophies) Philosophers question the role of government in the economy and the power government should have in people’s lives Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau E.g. rejection of the Divine Right of Kings

7 Values of Individualism Government control is seen as interfering and counter-productive Values of Individualism 7

Advantages of individualism 8 Advantages of individualism People are more self-reliant, which in turn boosts feelings of self-worth You have the opportunity to be very successful/rich Freedom to express yourself Competition brings new advancements and technology Rule of law = everyone knows the limits in society Accumulating private property is the reward for being a contributing member of society, gives a feeling of control

Disadvantages of individualism 9 Disadvantages of individualism There is limited help available to you if you experience failure A lot of success depends on luck and personal connections rather than hard work Property is often concentrated in the hands of the more fortunate It is difficult to get out of poverty Competition can lead to high levels of stress The economy experiences drastic fluctuation because there is limited government controls Society is more selfish, has less consideration for others

Political Party Spectrum (degree of support for individualist and collectivist values) 10 Canada United States