Individualism In Lenin's A World Of Ideas

In the introduction of A World of Ideas, Jacobus states that he feels individualism will keep society in balance. However, in today's off-kilter world, this argument should be revisited to determine if individual thinking is selfish in the context of modern society. Individual expression and thought is crucial in today's society. Without freedom of thought, rebellion is inevitable. As seen in a description of the Russian government by Vladmir Lenin, a society restricted in thought is an unjust society. "Our power does not know liberty or justice. It is established on the destruction of the individual will." In this statement, Lenin contrasts free societies and sequacious societies. Revolts in situations such as these occur throughout …show more content…
Societies that encourage critical thinking and questioning are more-likely to produce many potential solutions when conflict arises. Free-thinking societies can also contribute culturally to the world around them. Without individualism the world would not have works of art from talented artists such as Monet. Monet was a pioneer of his time in Impressionism and philosophy ("Biography of Claude Oscar Monet"). Because he was on the forefront of his fields, Monet was often criticized during his time. However, despite critics, Monet was not prohibited from continuing his work. Freedom of thought led to some of the most iconic paintings of our time such as The Water Lily Pond and Pink Water-Lilies. As individualism has produced extraordinary works, it makes sense that John Steinbeck feels that, "The free, exploring mind of the individual human is the most valuable thing in all the world." Individualism has given the world works that, without intellectual freedom, would not exist. In this same way, individualism can produce new ideas that were never considered before. Because of the capabilities of the mind, individualism enhances society and encourages societal …show more content…
It is something only if it consists of all of us," he was saying that individual thought prevents America from maintaining its status as a strong world power. However, in order for this interpretation to be true, one must assume that individualism negates community. I argue that individualism enhances unity in a community. When each person follows their passions and works in fields that he or she loves, society has motivated employees in all businesses, allowing for high-quality materials and services. Because of this, I argue that what maintains America's position as a strong world power is individualism of its