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Martin Luther King Individualism Analysis

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In the 21st century, societies often opt for an individualistic approach to life rather than a collectivist way of life. Individuals are now looking out only for their own self-interests and striving towards one goal: profit. Martin Luther King opposed this way of living. He states that as an individual, one must escape his/hers individualistic and self-centered beliefs and rise to a point where one is filled with concern for the entire society. It is only in that way that life can be lived to its full potential. Growing up in a segregated area has highly influenced King’s perspective. He viewed all kinds of people as one people and highly advocated for minority rights and freedoms during the 20th century. He wanted equality and a society …show more content…

Many people would disagree with King’s stand on individualism. Those who support capitalism would argue that individualism brings out the best in people. It improves lifestyle through innovation and economic freedom. Competition motivates people to strive for more, creating an overall more prosperous society. Individual rights and freedoms allow people to voice and discuss their opinions, and participate in government decisions. This ultimately causing a people to become closer socially, creating a closer knit society. Others would agree with King, claiming that collectivist values benefit everyone. It decreases economic disparity , allows for social improvements and change , and creates social programs that help all that require it. It is apparent that King’s view on individualism and collectivism should be greatly embraced . Collectivism supports values of economic equality, creating an even distribution of wealth. In countries where capitalism and individualism is strongly supported, economic disparity is extremely large, and the gap between the rich …show more content…

When individuals cooperate towards a common goal, goals are achieved in a quicker more efficient manner. Social reforms are a result of cooperation within a society. Martin Luther King’s perspective explains that one must focus on global concerns. Many social reforms are a result of collective cooperation. Lobby groups that protest to the government do not only contain one person, but many people who support the same cause and desire change. Women’s suffrage was not achieved independently. In Canada, after World War I, women started strongly advocating for their right to vote. Having taken up the jobs of men when they were away at war, they felt strongly that they should obtain the right to vote. Thousands of women banded together to protest the gender inequality. In a fully individualistic society, people would not cooperate towards reform and change . While individuals do not have much power alone, thousands of individuals together create an enormous amount of pressure on governments to change. In 1918, Canadian women officially acquired the right to vote. In the United States of America, there were similar reforms and protests. Women from all over the country were pulled together to achieve a similar goal. The National Women’s Suffrage Association was formed and they campaigned strongly for suffrage. In 1920, American women gained the right to vote as well. Even in countries that support competition and self-interest,

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