Compare and contrast individualism and individuality - Essay Example

Topic: Compare and contrast 'individualism' and 'individuality' This report examines the diversity of human behavior in the form of individualism and individuality. In order to compare and contrast both terms, a simple form of definition is first provided followed by a more in-depth analysis.Defining 'Individualism'This term refers to a conduct of principle or a mode of life in which an individual pursues his own ends or follows out his ideas (Oxford English Dictionary). It is also the doctrine that the individual is a self-determined whole, and that any larger whole is merely an aggregate of individuals, which, if they act upon each other at all, is only on an external basis (Oxford English Dictionary).

Defining 'Individuality'On the other hand, individuality refers to the state or quality of being indivisible or inseparable and also the fact or condition of existing as an individual (Oxford English Dictionary). Here, the aggregate of properties are peculiar to an individual, where the sum of the attributes distinguish an object from others of the same kind (Oxford English Dictionary).Comparing and contrasting 'individualism' and 'individuality'Essentially, the root for 'individualism' and 'individuality' is individual, which indicates an entity or idea that is not divisible.

Although both terms embrace the idea of inseparability, the intentions for both behaviors are very different. While the doctrine of 'individualism' may be tied to the thought of 'egoism' (Wikipedia) which suggests self-serving tendencies, the principle of 'individuality' does not require the sacrifice of self-interest for any other causes.In summary, it can be argued that 'individualism' is more about an approach to life where individual benefits are paramount and it opposes collectivism where no sacrifice is made.

On the other hand, 'individuality' is geared more towards a quality of life which values individual choice and may not entirely be self-serving or self-sacrificing which then creates a certain degree of identity.Works CitedOxford English Dictionary. "Individualism and Individuality." Oxford English Dictionary. 2006. .Wikipedia. "Egoism". Wikipedia. 2006. .