Individualism Vs Collectivism

Individualism or Collectivism? Which is better for societies?
Throughout the world, cultures differ in the way their citizens deal with each other and the level of collaboration that exists among them. One example is the difference between individualistic and collectivist societies. Individualistic societies prefer a social framework that is loosely-knit, where individuals are expected to care for and support themselves. Collectivist societies, on the other hand, have a more tightly-knit framework in the society where the groups of citizens care for them in return for loyalty. Although many people believe that individualism is good for societies through promoting economic development directly, collectivism is better because it balances societies

This is different from individualism, which expects individuals to only care for their own selves and immediate families, which can decrease their contribution to the overall society. Thornhill and Fincher (1) explain that many societies require the support, collaboration and partnership of its citizens and various stakeholders in order to advance and prosper, and that this is encouraged mostly by collectivism, not individualism. The reason for this is that collectivism promotes a very tight social interaction, where there is widespread respect, loyalty and support to members of the wider social group, not just the immediate

Nonetheless, this never ending race might cause a major chaos on the long run and stigmatize the society. Research shows that people who put relatively less emphasis on extrinsic goals such as financial gain, and relatively more emphasis on intrinsic goals such as having rich social relationships or making contributions to the community, tend to be happier (Ahuvia, 5). Economic growth is not only dependent on wealth but is also associated with happy societies (Ahuvia, 2). A society that lacks happiness and comfortableness is unable to move forward and be productive. In “The Age of Loneliness Is Killing US”, George Monbiot points out that individualistic societies are lonely, sad and cold (2014). People are cutting every connection they have with each other, and are pursuing their thirst for wealth and increased income that is never satisfied because of the aspirational impacts of competition. This is causing a major impact on the individuals of the society, because they are never satisfied and are always striving for more, which is causing them serious anxiety