Collectivism Individualism in the Real World Individualism and

Collectivism & Individualism in the Real World

• Individualism and collectivism are not always mutually exclusive. Most ideologies feature a mix of both sets of ideas, and some concepts or actions could be both collectivist and individualist. • The majority of Canadians & Americans believe people determine their own success in life (belief in selfreliance) However, a majority also believe gov’t should take care of those in need (belief in social welfare)

• Entrepreneurs are examples of individualism at work, however they may create economic benefits for others through their ideas which benefits the collective interests of society. • Modern liberalism emphasizes the importance of the individual and rights and freedoms, however it also addresses the unfair treatment of individuals through gov’t intervention. • **During the Great Depression (1930 s) governments became more involved in society and the economy to address rampant poverty. **

• Social programs – gov’t run programs designed to help meet people’s basic needs – Examples: public education, universal public health care, employment insurance, pension programs, etc. – Collectivist – Paid for through taxes – Not everyone uses them (or benefits from them) to the same degree • Gov’ts also practice collectivism through laws designed to prevent discrimination against minorities.

• Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) – Private organizations (therefore individualist) that focus on social issues such as poverty, environment, treatment of women, etc. – Goals tend to be collectivist on either a national or international level – Examples: Doctors Without Borders, Amnesty International, World Vision, Greenpeace