OVERINDIVIDUALISM Meaning and
Definition
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Overindividualism refers to an excessive focus on one's own interests, needs, and desires, to the detriment of collective well-being or social cohesion. It is a concept that critiques extreme individualism, emphasizing the negative consequences it can have on society.
In an overindividualistic society, individuals prioritize their personal goals and aspirations above the common good or the welfare of the community. This excessive emphasis on self-interest can lead to a breakdown in social cohesion and a weakening of the bonds that hold a society together. It may result in a sense of detachment, isolation, and competition, where individuals pursue their own advancement without considering the broader impacts on others.
Overindividualism can manifest in various forms, such as an excessive pursuit of personal wealth, success, or power at the expense of social welfare. It can also emerge as a lack of empathy or disregard for the needs and perspectives of others. This mindset often exalts personal achievements and self-reliance while downplaying collective responsibility and interdependence.
Critics argue that overindividualism can undermine social equality and fairness, perpetuating societal division and exclusion. They claim that instead of fostering collaboration, empathy, and communal support, the excessive focus on individualism can lead to a competitive and fragmented society, characterized by minimal social cohesion and limited collective action.
Overall, overindividualism represents an extreme form of individualism that prioritizes personal interests and needs above collective well-being, potentially resulting in negative social, economic, and cultural consequences.
Common Misspellings for OVERINDIVIDUALISM
- iverindividualism
- kverindividualism
- lverindividualism
- pverindividualism
- 0verindividualism
- 9verindividualism
- ocerindividualism
- oberindividualism
- ogerindividualism
- oferindividualism
- ovwrindividualism
- ovsrindividualism
- ovdrindividualism
- ovrrindividualism
- ov4rindividualism
- ov3rindividualism
- oveeindividualism
- ovedindividualism
- ovefindividualism
- ovetindividualism
Etymology of OVERINDIVIDUALISM
The word "overindividualism" is formed by combining the prefix "over-" and the noun "individualism".
The prefix "over-" in this context implies excessive or beyond normal limits. It is derived from the Old English prefix "ofer", which means "above" or "beyond".
The noun "individualism" comes from the French word "individualisme", which is further derived from the Medieval Latin "individualismus" and the Latin word "individuus" meaning "indivisible". It entered the English language in the 19th century and refers to the philosophy or belief that stresses the importance of individual rights, freedom, and self-reliance.
When combined, "overindividualism" refers to an excessive or exaggerated emphasis on individualism, often implying a disregard for collective or societal interests.
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