Individualism is a moral stance, political philosophy, ideology, and social outlook that emphasizes the intrinsic worth of the individual. It is a belief system that centers the individual and places significance on the individuals interests, rights, and duties. Individualism places an emphasis on the individual within a society as opposed to emphasizing the group. It is often defined in contrast to totalitarianism, collectivism, and more corporate social forms. Individualists promote realizing ones goals and desires, valuing independence and self-reliance, and advocating that the interests of the individual should gain precedence over the state or a social group, while opposing external interference upon ones own interests by society or institutions such as the government.
The term individualism itself, and its equivalents in other languages, dates from the 19th century. In the United States, individualism became part of the core American ideology by the 19th century, incorporating the influences of New England Puritanism, Jeffersonianism, and the philosophy of natural rights. American individualism was universalist and idealist but acquired a harsher edge as it became infused with elements of social Darwinism (i.e., the survival of the fittest).
Individualism has influenced the development of a variety of social practices and academic disciplines, including psychology, philosophy, politics, and economics. It is associated with humanist philosophical positions and ethics. Individualism is also associated with artistic and bohemian interests and lifestyles where there is a tendency towards self-creation and experimentation as opposed to tradition or popular mass opinions and behaviors.
