Samaira Yadav
The concept of individuality has undergone many interpretations throughout history. While some believe that an individual can become a better person through isolation, others believe that individuality can lead to harm. Many believe that the best way to lead a successful life is to remain part of a strong community. Hence, the concept of individuality has a complex relationship with the concept of community. The line between individuality and loneliness has blurred over time. While isolation has its benefits, we desire a community as it is what supports and encourages us to pursue our goals in times of crisis and contributes positively to our health.
In this constantly evolving society that we live in today, our expectations for each other have never been higher, nearly impossible for the average member. We are constantly expected to be doing more. Often, it seems too much to handle. Amidst these ever-increasing expectations, In Henry David Thoreau’s book Walden, a reflection upon the time he spent in isolation and simple living, he claims that embracing a simple and solitary life is the ultimate ideal. He argues that the current world and society is very advanced and has lots of expectations for us. He says, “In the midst of this chopping sea of civilized life…that a man has to live, if he would not founder and go to the bottom and not make his port at all, by dead reckoning, and he must be a great calculator indeed who succeeds.” Essentially, he is saying that civilized life is rough and ruthless; to be able to succeed and live up to society’s expectations, one must be a genius. Thoreau argues for “Simplicity, simplicity, simplicity!”. Simplifying one’s life allows them to control their life and escape the unrealistic pressures of today’s society. Even so, it is difficult to simplify life. Few have the opportunity to live off the grid, and fewer have the financial stability and time to go through with it. This is especially hard as our lives are documented and shared through the means of technology. To successfully live off the grid, one would still need modern technology; whether it’s solar panels for energy or satellite access to receive important information. It’s not as easy now as it was for Thoreau, and of course all of society doesn’t need to live off the grid, it comes down to which one a person would be happier with. Some might prefer the busy life over the one in isolation. So while Thoreau makes appealing points, achieving them is unrealistic and near impossible.
Individuality is praised in society, we romanticize independence, but forget that it’s only successful when we can effectively support each other when independence fails. We push women to work and stand up for themselves. We praise young adults for getting jobs and buying their first home, and belittle them when they don’t, saying, “When I was your age, I was married with kids.” We shame young adults for living with their parents, even if it is only till they are financially stable enough to move out. We criticize them for relying on others, and then we act shocked when they fall into depression and pull away from society completely. In his article, “How Covenants Make Us, ” David Brooks says, “A culture of autonomy valorizes individual choice and self-determination,” but healthy autonomy can only be achieved with a strong social foundation. Knowing we have the support of those around us to aid us when we fall is what allows us to take the risks and get back on the bike everytime. Being part of a group helps one to better pursue their goals. As Brooks said, “You take away a rich social fabric and what you are left with is people who are uncertain about who they really are.” While spending time alone, we need a rich social fabric to support us. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the entire world had to stay at home, many of us stuck alone. Our community was there when we broke down because we thought the world was ending. This community pushed us to pursue our dreams in our free time. So many of us started small businesses and picked up old hobbies. We were only able to make it through because we had family and friends supporting us. In A Paradise in Hell by Rebecca Solnit, she discusses the social phenomenon observed during times of crisis. “Thousands of people survived Hurricane Katrina because grandsons or aunts or neighbors or complete strangers reached out to those in need all…In the wake of an earthquake, a bombing, or a major storm, most people are altruistic”. The pandemic was no exception. We had to live by ourselves for nearly 2 years, and in that time we have grown exponentially as a society and as individuals, becoming more independent and confident, because we had the support of strangers all over the world, as well as our close friends and family. Our individuality is important, it can help us grow as an individual and help us contribute to society, but it is far more likely to be achieved if one has a good support system..
Furthermore, community is an integral part of human life, and it plays an important role in our individual health and happiness. In his essay “Health and Happiness”, Robert Putnam discusses his research on the impact of community on individuals has shown that social connections can have a huge effect on mental health and well-being. Sociologist James House and his colleagues found that individuals who have a sense of belonging and social support have better physical health than those who lack community ties, concluding that these community ties have positive contributions. They found that individuals who are socially integrated tend to live better and have a better overall health. Social connectedness provides a sense of belonging and social support which can improve cognitive function and reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression. It is likely that on some level, our brains know we need social integration and connections, so we strive for it, unknowingly. However, there has been a recent decline in social integration, especially with the rise of technology and increasing individualism in society. Teenagers, much like my 13 year old sister, spend all day up in their rooms, on their phones, and then get mad when we call them out on it. Work hours have also increased and become far more demanding, reducing the opportunities for more social interaction. It has made it challenging to build and maintain social connections. During the free time they get, many would much rather isolate and spend time inside browsing social media rather than outside socializing, however technology isn’t completely harmful. The role of technology in bridging the gap between isolation and social interaction is increasingly valuable in today’s society. Technology can also help break down barriers that prevent people from forming meaningful relationships. Through online forums, people can exchange ideas and support one another, regardless of their location. This can help to reduce feelings of loneliness and foster a sense of community. Ultimately, if used carefully and in the right manner, technology has the potential to bridge the gap between isolation and social interaction, creating a more connected and supportive society. Nonetheless, a community is being provided and sought out by the individual for the individual, whether physically isolated or not. Putnam concluded that social connections have a powerful effect on mental health, and that community-based interventions can be a helpful tool in improving mental health outcomes. This finding is significant, as it demonstrates that social connections can be a powerful tool in improving the mental health of individuals, and that community-based interventions should be taken into account when addressing mental health issues.The community’s role in promoting social integration is critical and can create opportunities for these social connections, foster a sense of belonging, and provide support systems for the individuals, contributing to overall health and happiness.
Although it is true that maintaining individual values and preferences is important for personal growth, our innate need for community has stayed constant. We are happiest when we have people to share our lives with – someone to talk to, learn from, turn to in times of need and celebrate success. The modern world may bring more access to individual freedom, but the importance of community will never diminish – it is an essential part of our human experience that enables us to realize our dreams and persevere through our hardships. For those more like Thoreau, living alone is achievable, but pulling away from society is unhealthy and unhelpful. Knowing we have a group to fall back on in times of need is what gives one the strength to achieve individuality. One can be alone, but should not be lonely.
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Samaira Yadav is a high school senior who enjoys analysis and philosophy. She enjoys engaging in thoughtful discussions of the sort. Her love for analysis has led her to pursue a major in Finance and a career as an investment banker. Samaira also finds joy in swimming and music.
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