Origins of Individualism and Collectivism
1.2 Explain historic and contemporary expressions of individualism and collectivism
1.5 Explain individualism as a foundation of ideology
Individualism has been one of the most important driving forces in modern cultures.
Individualism in the past:
1. Early Mesopotamia the ruler Urukagina was the first to create Property laws stating that
no one could seize the property of another
2. Concept of the “Self” was discussed by Aristotle in the 4th century BCE.
3. The Renaissance: 1450- 1600:
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It took place in Italian city-states
They challenged the roles of the individual in society
This period brought greater interest of individualism. European schools learned the
classical ideas about the importance of life in the world, man’s role in the world, and
the worth of the individual.
Main Ideas from the renaissance were Humanism (human potential is unlimited) and
Individualism
In Greek Mythology, the relationship b/w the gods and humans was used as an
example: Humans sometimes challenged the powers of the gods indicating that they
were on equal terms
The focus changed to individualism, beauty, strength, and reason
B/c of this we could be gods ourselves, we can remake the world in our own image
and we can be masters of own destiny
Artists became known for the individual accomplishments as opposed to the
accomplishments of society.
Individual accomplishments were also known for books, education, the
study/questioning of nature and the natural forces
4. The Protestant Reformation: 1500-1600
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It was a product of the Renaissance
It focused on the Potential if the Individual
How?
Challenged:
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the power & authority of the Church
Predestination:
The Bible is now printed in the vernacular language so individuals could read it and
make their own interpretation of God’s word and that they would have they own
personal relationship with God instead and a collective
Collectivism in the Past
First signs of Collectivism are the formation of Societies: working and hunting together as a
group
Early Christians with concept of sharing
1. Aboriginal Concept of Collectivism:
-Their culture traditions have a strong sense in the collective: education, land-holdings,
decision making, raising children are all made for the common good
2. Medieval Period: 476-1490
- After the breakup of the Roman Empire Europe was in Chaos
- Over time warlords restored order by creating Feudalism and as a result an
aristocracy was formed (lords provided land and protection in return for loyalty
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The concept of the individual wasn’t worth much
With the rise of Christianity people were less focused on material wealth and more
on the afterlife
Therefore little importance on the arts, science, and commerce
As well people were placed in collectives such as farmers, painter, teachers, and
lawyers. What mattered was how you fit in your group not your individual identity.
Due to the “Divine Right of Kings” concept, Kings hold power through the will of God
6-Principles of Individualism (Classical Liberalism)
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Individual Rights and Freedoms
Rule of Law
Private Property
Economic freedom
Self-Interest
Competition
6-Principles of Collectivism
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Economic Equality
Co-operation
Public Property
Collective Interest
Collective Responsibility
Adherence to collective Norms
Homework: What do these Principles mean? Understand each of these Principles in detail.
Why? Part A (assignment I) of your Diploma exam is based on these principles.