The Theories of Collectivism and Individualism - Essay Example

A believer of collectivism allows the group’s goal to take precedence over and above his agenda.  Orthodox collectivism holds that man has no rights.  The Collectivist ethical principle is this: man is not an end to himself, but is only a tool to serve the ends of others (http://ironicsurrealism. blogivists.com/2009/03/01/collectivism-vs-individualism/).  Unlike individualism, collectivism stresses mutual interdependence and subjugation for the common good or the good of the majority.

Individualism on the other hand regards the self as the most important factor to consider in any given situation.  Anything that is not self-serving takes a backseat.  Usually practiced in Western cultures, individualism advocates follow the credo “To each his own”. Individualism is the…ideology…that stresses independence and self-reliance.

Based on the two theories above, I would classify myself as a collectivist.  I give more importance to my family, my peers, my school, my extended family, and my community.  I look at the world not from the first-person singular point of view but the “We” point of view.  I do not see myself as the focal point, but rather what I am when I am with my group.     

Before I set out to do anything, I think of the possible impact it would have on my family, first and foremost.  For instance, if I get good grades, it would make my family happy and proud of me.  Next in line would be my friends, schoolmates, and extended family.  If I get a scholarship, my family, relatives, neighbors, classmates, and friends will surely be ecstatic about it and relate the story to other friends and acquaintances.  In like manner, if I do something unconventional or is against the rules of the group, I worry.  If I fail a subject or get a cluster of failing grades, it will be a big issue for my family and other social circles where I am connected to.  This will certainly hurt them since a closely-knit network is characteristic of collectivist groups.

It was only upon gaining familiarity with these theories that I learned that I was already practicing the idea of collectivism.  Just like the examples mentioned in the reference book, I was shy during my younger days.  I had much difficulty in overcoming this personal trait.  Close family ties are common in the culture I grew up in.  For me, the family is the smallest, and most basic institution, and yetis assumes the most essential role in the development of the individual.   

In collectivism, there is also the tendency to be submissive because harmony and solidarity are given more importance.  As much as possible, confrontation is avoided.  Norms are set, and every member of the group should follow.  If there is something wrong that should be known, an elder or superior would approach the parents, talk to him/her discreetly, and the parents are left to talk to the child for their advice/counseling   Respect for elders, and loyalty is also equally given importance in the upbringing I was accustomed to.    

Notwithstanding my views on collectivism, rigid or mainstream collectivism cannot be followed 100% of the time.  Every situation has its peculiarities and sometimes students have to practice individualism to make the grade – that is, when they strive for personal control and individual achievement (Myers, 117).  For me, perhaps it’s 90:10, for collectivism.