america has never had something like an overarching nation-state or something that would make people feel that they’re part of one homogenous society; nevertheless individualism has accelerated and sharpened even more in the last few decades.
there is no functioning Social Security in the US because people are afraid that their money could go to some other, possibly corrupt and irresponsible person, who would waste the money.
the truth is, however, that it is basically impossible to live alone, except maybe if you’re a 25 year old man venturing through the woods. not only does almost anybody need something (whether children need childcare or elder people need elderly care), but also it is much more efficient if people work together.
this is the great tragedy of today’s rugged individualism: that it fundamentally contradicts human nature.
a very good article.
america has never had something like an overarching nation-state or something that would make people feel that they’re part of one homogenous society; nevertheless individualism has accelerated and sharpened even more in the last few decades.
there is no functioning Social Security in the US because people are afraid that their money could go to some other, possibly corrupt and irresponsible person, who would waste the money.
the truth is, however, that it is basically impossible to live alone, except maybe if you’re a 25 year old man venturing through the woods. not only does almost anybody need something (whether children need childcare or elder people need elderly care), but also it is much more efficient if people work together.
this is the great tragedy of today’s rugged individualism: that it fundamentally contradicts human nature.