Individualism: Past and Present

I'm not too sure what to make of this excerpt but I will make an attempt to discuss the topic of individualism. What I get from it is that nowadays people strive to be individuals rather than to be just a member of a group.

The author writes that "a return to traditional forms would be to return to intolerable discrimination and oppression" (Bellah et. al., p.144). I think Bellah is trying to say that people were more group-oriented. For example, in the times of slavery, if you were white you were expected to hate blacks. Nowadays, people want to be special - they want to explore their own ideas and develop their personal opinions. Modern individualism involves everyone finding their own niche in society. Everyone is given the opportunity to be who they want to be; there is equality for all. Bellah speaks of the "unequal rights and obligations" of the biblical and republican traditions. The modern world is all about fighting for equality.

This change in the meaning of individualism is driving people away from societies and into isolation. Bellah writes that "if the break with society is too radical, life has no meaning at all" (p.144). I agree with this as everyone needs relationships to be able to enjoy life. I support the idea of individuality but I think it should not be taken to the extreme. People should try to develop their identity without totally breaking away from society.